Chapter 25
Contains spoilersOverview
Andrew takes Millie to a Broadway show and an elegant French dinner, deepening their intimacy. A call from Nina and Andrew’s confession that their marriage has been sexless since the fertility news expose growing marital strain. Millie’s momentary escape collides with reminders of her servant status, raising emotional and ethical stakes.
Summary
On a warm June night, Andrew brings Millie to a coveted Broadway show, seating her near the stage. The experience makes Millie feel momentarily elevated beyond her role, until a text from Nina reminding her about trash collection jolts her back to her position and the fact that Andrew is her married employer.
After the triumphant performance, Andrew suggests dinner at a nearby French restaurant. Inside, he is attentive and courteous, and orders in fluent French. Conversation turns personal: he asks about Millie’s aspirations, and she demurs. Nina calls, audibly upset; after ending the call, Andrew vents about their relationship devolving into constant yelling and recalls how different Nina once was.
Over wine, Andrew mentions he owned and designed the house before meeting Nina and that he had been engaged before her. He then blurts out that he and Nina have not had sex since the doctor’s appointment about her fertility, immediately regretting the disclosure. The admission underscores the depth of their marital disconnect.
They proceed with the meal, trying to steer back to lighter topics, but the mood has shifted. Millie cannot forget Andrew’s confession or Nina’s call. The evening ends with their bond tightened by shared confidences, even as the boundaries between employer and maid—and the risks of discovery—grow increasingly fragile.
Who Appears
- Millie
Maid and narrator; enjoys Broadway with Andrew, feels special, then reminded of her role by Nina’s text; hears his marital confession.
- Andrew Winchester
Employer who treats Millie to a show and French dinner; takes Nina’s tense call and admits no sex since the fertility visit.
- Nina Winchester
Off-page presence; texts a trash reminder and calls upset, highlighting marital strain and Millie’s subordinate position.