Hot Coffee (The Hollens) novel Chapter 5

Emma's POV

Why were the other maids in the staff house, and I would be in the guest room? It was what I wanted to ask him but didn't. I took the coffee cup and headed back to the kitchen where I found Halley mopping the floor where flour had spilled.

"Um, Halley," I began. She made me uncomfortable, like a tiger ready to pounce and attack at any minute.

She looked over to me, mop still in hand. "What?"

"Mr. Hollen instructed that we should prepare a guest room downstairs."

"He's having visitors again, Aggie?" she asked her, turning from me.

"Not that I know of."

"Actually, it's for me," I let out.

Both women looked at me with awe.

"Mr. Hollen is having you sleep in a guest room?" Halley asked, dropping the mop.

I nodded.

She looked up at Agnes before Mr. Hollen appeared in the kitchen.

"Halley, what's the hold up?" he demanded.

"Nothing," she replied quickly and took my hand in hers, leading me out of the kitchen.

We walked straight ahead passed the living room, dinning room, a room with a huge pool table and colorful curtains, and another room that was all white. We arrived at four doors.

"Pick one," she said softly.

I chose the last one.

We entered and started dusting and tidying up. We made the bed and changed the pillow cases. She left then returned with a broom, mop, a bucket of water, and cleaning products. We cleaned the floors and reachable spots. When we had completed everything, I helped her carry the supplies back to the storage room.

"How long have you been screwing him?" she asked when we were back inside the guest room, making sure everything was perfect.

"What are you talking about?" Was she crazy? I was a virgin in every way. I'd never even had a hug from a guy. 

"Mr. Hollen never lets the help sleep in the mansion, unless she's screwing him like the previous maid."

"I'm not screwing him, Halley. I don't know why he's allowing me to sleep here."

"And you didn't ask?"

"No, I didn't."

She shook her head and glared at me with a smirk. I had had it with her and her attitude.

It was only my first day and she was acting as if we had been enemies since preschool. As if I had broken her favorite doll's neck, so she grew up hating me for it.

"Thanks for the help," I said, but she just turned on her heels and left.

I picked up the remote to the air conditioning unit and pressed the red button-- its always the red button. Cool air circulated the room. I was enjoying it when a knock came at the door. I opened it and Mr. Hollen walked in. He looked around like a health inspector. I was nervous just watching him.

"Have Agnes tell you what you need to do tomorrow. Have my coffee ready at 6:00 a.m, and no later than that. Also, write down your previous address." He handed me a notepad and a pen.