Chapter 3 - The Unexpected Inquiry
The next morning, Maria arrived at exactly 7:30 AM. Her hair was tied back in her signature tight bun, her comfortable shoes clicked softly against the marble, and the faded brown canvas bag hung from her shoulder.
She walked into the kitchen, expecting the usual cold distance—or worse, a termination notice. Instead, she found David sitting at the kitchen island, a hot pot of fresh coffee and a large platter of eggs, fresh fruit, warm pastries, and sliced avocado set between them.
"Good morning, Maria," David said, standing up. "Please, sit down."
Maria paused, her hands gripping the straps of her bag. "Mr. Miller, I have a lot of work to do. The master bedroom needs dusting, and—"
"The dusting can wait," David said, his voice gentle but carrying an undeniable weight. "I want you to eat breakfast with me. And please, don't tell me you've already eaten."
Maria looked at the food, then at David’s eyes. For the first time, she saw no suspicion in them. There was only a quiet, earnest sincerity. Slowly, she slipped the bag off her shoulder and sat on the edge of the high stool, looking incredibly small in the grand kitchen.
"My son told me about your lunch yesterday, Maria," David said softly, pouring her a cup of coffee. "And I checked the security footage to confirm. I want to apologize. I was blind, and I was defensive. You have been taking care of my home and my son, and I haven't even taken the time to ensure you are fed."
May you like
Maria stared at the steaming coffee, her eyes suddenly filling with a deep, weary moisture. "You don't owe me an apology, Mr. Miller. This is a job. I am here to clean, not to be a burden."
"Hunger is never a burden, Maria," David said. "Why didn't you say anything?"
