“Theodore’s blanket is clean and his fever is down,” I said, keeping my voice soft and flat.

“You’re a hired maid, Nora, and hired maids are easy to replace,” Christopher said, stepping close enough that I caught the sharp smell of his peppermint aftershave.

“I answer to Raymond,” I said.

“Don’t think my uncle’s silence gives you a permanent right to squat in this house,” Christopher said.

He turned away without another word and walked toward the study, his leather soles clicking sharply on the polished marble floor.

At half past twelve, Christopher called me into the grand dining room.