''Lizzy?''

    Lizzy wearily turned off the kitchen water. ''Yes?''

    Lizzy heard sharp tapping of her boss's high heels. She cringed. Out of all of her employers, she was the most strict.

    ''Yes, Mrs. Zickler?'' Lizzy repeated.

    Mrs. Zickler's eyes met Lizzy's.

    ''Miss Lizzy, do you happen to know that my dining room is in COMPLETE disorder?''

    ''N-no, ma'am...'' Lizzy stuttered.

Chapter One

''Well, as you ought to know, it IS your job to keep everything in order. You DO know that, Miss Lizzy?''

    ''Yes, Mrs. Zi-''

    ''Then,'' Mrs. Zickler's voice turned sharper still, ''why is my home being uncared for? Is my home not in your care? Lizzy?''

    ''Yes, ma'am. I'm sorry, ma'am. It won't happen again, m-''

    ''That is enough!'' Mrs. Zickler cried out. ''Too many times I let it slide; you are simply not dependent! I'm going to have to let you go.''

    Lizzy's eyes filled with tears. ''Please, ma'am, give me another chance!''

    Mrs. Zickler shook her head. ''I'm afraid not, Lizzy. I'll give you your last payment, then you must leave.''

    Lizzy numbly nodded and walked to her room to unpack her things. She lost her job.

    It wasn't the first time Lizzy was fired. She was let go for the same reason every time.

    Lizzy wearily took her bags and left.