Nisa held the maid's hands in hers. They were rougher than her own from work and warmer. She squeezed them gently for a moment then loosened her hold so that the other could pull her hands free at any moment. The words had the smaller woman smile as she looked up at her.

"Thank you. I do hope every day that he suffers the worst the world can provide. I am grateful to your understanding."

She had done all she could to make him suffer, unlike the rest, she let him live so that it wouldn't end.

"And thank you again for answering my call for a maid. We just met but I have a feeling you may be what I've been searching for." Her eyes met Briar's wondering if the woman would be quick to look away.