Chapter Twenty-Nine

Annie narrates growing tension in the Hampstead household after a new au pair, Naomi, replaces Sandra. Unlike Sandra, Naomi disdains the work and the family, doing the bare minimum and avoiding bonds with Annie and the children. Annie senses Allen’s interest in Naomi and the danger it brings to their already fragile family stability.

Naomi and Allen bicker over money and expectations. Allen insists room and board are payment enough, while Naomi pressures him for cash. Annie fears the simmering conflict will explode and, within a month, Naomi leaves, temporarily defusing the threat but underscoring the house’s instability.

Two weeks later, Allen returns late with another woman, Jane, older and more refined than previous girls. Annie immediately recognizes Allen’s intent and judges Jane unsuitable for their covert arrangement. When Allen tries to proceed, Jessamine’s sudden tumble out of bed interrupts, giving Jane the opening to pull away.

Allen attempts to persuade Jane to stay, but Annie intervenes and denies it. Annie watches Jane run into the night and hopes Allen will stop bringing women into their home, recognizing how close the family came to a disastrous escalation.