chapter 9

Abbie The Next Day The only time I get to see Ivy is in small glimpses or brief—very brief—words before being called back for my chores. However, after finishing the washing, I hang it out. I woke up extra early this morning, hoping to get my chores finished early. I had been building up courage all day, and now it is nearing. I am already talking myself out of it. As I set the basket down on top of the empty washer, I wander into the kitchens to see Clarice. She is going over staff rosters. Stopping next to her, I glance around at the cooks preparing for dinner. Even though I know I have two hours before I am needed back here, I still hesitate, chewing on the inside of my lip, trying to find the words. The entire time, all I can think about is Mrs. Daley’s reaction when I asked her, and the punishment I received for thinking stupidly that now that I had shifted, she would allow it. As much as I despise remembering that place, I find myself sucked back into the past. “Mrs. Daley?” I wh