Her palms were damp, clammy, like she’d been out too long in the sun. But it wasn’t the heat. It was because this interview could change her life, could be end up being the one place whee she could seek refuge. If they gave her the job. After what seemed an age, she heard the creak of the door and jumped to her feet. A man appeared. Older than her own father, with a thick bushy moustache and small spectacles, but he looked kind. Almost friendly. Not like the stern man she’d been expecting. “Mrs. Parker?” She nodded and braved a smile, holding out her hand just like she’d practiced in the mirror at home. “Yes. Pleased to meet you, sir.” He nodded and ushered her into his office. Madeline took a deep breath and walked forward. The office was neat. Orderly. A large desk, formidable chair seated behind it, sat in the center of the room. She waited until he was standing in front of it, and only sat when he beckoned for her to do so. Right now, her manners were the only thing she was sure of. “So, Mrs.
