She took a moment to collect her thoughts and then ventured to ask, “Sir, would you like me to prepare some afternoon tea for Mrs. Dreskin?"

Glancing upstairs in the direction of the master bedroom, Bennett responded, "No, that won't be necessary. Please make some soup and plan for a light dinner later on."

“Okay, sir," Marcia replied.

Interactions with Bennett were always sparse for Marcia. His chilly demeanor often deterred her from engaging in conversation with him. Satisfied with his unambiguous instructions, she refrained from further discussion and promptly retreated to the kitchen.

As soon as Bennett was gone, silence engulfed the room.