Cover of The Maid

The Maid

by Nita Prose


Genre
Mystery, Crime, Suspense, Contemporary
Year
2022
Pages
385
Contents

Chapter 3

Overview

Detective Stark meets Molly in Mr. Snow’s office, initiating the formal investigation into Charles Black’s death. Stark mentions signs consistent with a heart attack while keeping foul play under review. Mr. Snow reassures Molly she is not in trouble and will be paid. Molly leaves with Stark to give a witness statement.

Summary

Molly waits anxiously in Mr. Snow’s office until Mr. Snow arrives with Detective Stark. Unsure how to greet a detective, Molly fusses over placing her teacup on a coaster and offers a polite curtsy, while Stark studies her closely.

Stark expresses sympathy, and Mr. Snow attributes Molly’s odd remarks to shock. When Molly asks about the cause of death, Stark notes petechial hemorrhaging that fits a heart attack but adds that other causes remain possible and that foul play must be ruled out.

Molly smiles at a private joke, drawing Mr. Snow’s concern, and she apologizes. Stark requests that Molly come to the station to provide a witness statement. Molly initially resists due to her unfinished shift, but Mr. Snow insists she cooperate, assures full pay, and confirms she is not in trouble.

After clarifying that Mr. Snow will handle her teacup, Molly agrees. Stark leads her out of the office, through the lobby, and out the service door to take her statement, moving the case into official channels.

Who Appears

  • Molly Gray
    Meticulous maid who found Charles Black; questioned as a witness and accompanies police to give a statement.
  • Detective Stark
    Lead investigator; notes signs of heart attack but keeps foul play open; takes Molly to the station.
  • Mr. Snow
    Hotel manager; introduces Detective Stark, reassures Molly about pay and status, and urges cooperation.
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