She had seen women like Ruth before, proud, empty, and angry. She quietly prayed she wouldn’t have to stay long in such a house.
She carried the food to Michael’s room. “I hope it’s not too salty,” she said with a small smile.
Michael looked at the tray. The food smelled warm like home. He took a spoonful, paused, and looked at her.
This is actually good. Amora smiled brightly. Thank you. So he stuttered her again. What did you say your name was?
Amara. He nodded. You have a kind face, Amora. Her heart softened. And you have tired eyes.
So he paused, surprised. No one has ever said that to me before. Well, she replied gently, no one has ever looked closely enough.
That night, Amara returned to her small room. She knelt beside her bed and folded her hands.
“Lord,” she whispered, her voice shaking, “I don’t know why you brought me here, but please use me.
Help Mr. Michael find joy again.” A tear rolled down her cheek. She wiped it away, lay on her bed, and slowly drifted to sleep.
Early the next morning, Amara was already sweeping the hallway when the front door quietly opened at exactly 6:00 a.m.
Ruth tiptoed inside. She was wearing a tight red gown, holding glittering high heels in her hand.
Her makeup was smudged, and her hair looked messy, like she had been dancing all night.
At first, she didn’t notice Amora, but when she looked up and saw her, her face twisted in irritation.
“What are you staring at?” Ruth snapped. Amora quickly bowed her head. “Good morning, Ma.”
Ruth hissed under her breath and walked upstairs without another word. Amora watched her go, a strange heaviness settling in her chest.
The madam of the house was returning at sunrise while her sick husband lay helpless in bed.
Something didn’t feel right at all. Later that morning, Michael called Mara to his room.
“You’re up early,” he said as she gently adjusted his blanket. “I’ve always been an a bird,” she replied with a soft smile.
“I like to start work before the sun fully wakes up.” “He smiled weakly. I noticed.”
“Yo, different.” Amara hesitated for a moment, then spoke carefully. “So, would you like to sit outside today?”
A little sunlight might help your mood. Michael paused. I haven’t gone outside in months.
