The Maid
by Nita Prose
Contents
Chapter 12
Overview
Molly returns to the hotel after pawning the ring but is intercepted in the lobby by Detective Stark and Mr. Snow. Despite Mr. Preston’s warning to leave, Molly is publicly escorted back to the station for more questioning. The spectacle, including Cheryl’s eager attention, heightens suspicion and pressure around Molly.
Summary
Molly hurries back to the hotel near the start of her shift, carrying pawned cash. The lobby appears unusually quiet, and Mr. Preston, tense at his post, urges her to go home via the back door. Through the doors, Molly spots Mr. Snow standing with Detective Stark.
Refusing to flee, Molly enters the lobby, where Detective Stark and Mr. Snow immediately block her path. Cheryl watches from nearby, smiling with anticipation. Detective Stark informs Molly she is being taken back to the station for more questioning, insisting there is an “easy way.”
Guests and staff cluster and stare as Molly agrees to go. Detective Stark escorts her outside. Mr. Preston offers his arm as Molly feels a wave of vertigo, and he quietly wishes her well. The chapter closes as Detective Stark leads Molly away for further interrogation.
Who Appears
- MollyHousekeeper returning from pawning a ring; intercepted and escorted to the station for questioning.
- Detective StarkLead investigator; confronts Molly in the lobby and insists on taking her for more questioning.
- Mr. PrestonDoorman; warns Molly to leave by the back door and steadies her as she departs.
- Mr. SnowManager; accompanies Detective Stark, nervously informs Molly she must return to the station.
- CherylCoworker observing the scene, smiling with anticipation as Molly is escorted away.