The Ghost of a Marriage

Hazel's Pov

“Ma’am, this isn’t your job,” the maid murmured, clutching the mop as though it were gold. “You shouldn’t be doing this—”

“I insist,” I said, fingers brushing hers as I tried to take it. “Whether or not it’s my job, I’d rather keep myself busy than sit around doing nothing.”

“Ma’am, please,” she protested, holding the mop tighter. “If you clean, then what do I do? And if Mr. Vane comes