WITH a glint of reluctance and acceptance side by side, Orlanda nodded her head.

“But for a reason I said,” she added and then sighed deeply.

Mrs. Grimes smiled, relief evident in her eyes.

“It is fine,” she said, “thank you, Orlanda. I know this isn't easy, but I believe it is the right decision. We will support you every step of the way,” she added.

Orlanda shrugged.

“Well, okay,” she replied, this latest decision of hers heavy on her shoulders.

Why not? She has just accepted to apply for the position of a maid, a personal maid to the most cruel man she had ever come across. But then,...