“Hello? Housekeeping.’

THE maid hovered in the suite’s large living room, just inside the entrance. The 32-year-old Guinean had been told by a waiter that room 2806 was now free for cleaning.

“Hello? Housekeeping,” the Sofitel hotel employee called out. No reply. The door to the bedroom, to her left, was open, and she could see part of the bed. She glanced around for luggage, but saw none.

“Hello? Housekeeping.”