Chapter 3 - The Broken Seal
That evening, I crept into the staff quarters while the house was quiet. I found Elena’s sewing kit. Tucked inside a false bottom of the box, I discovered a roll of leather-matching thread and a small, specialized sewing needle used for thick hide.
My heart hammered against my ribs. She wasn't just the housekeeper; she was the one who had altered the collar.
Suddenly, the door creaked. I spun around, hiding the needle in my pocket. Jared stood in the doorway, his silhouette imposing against the hall light.
"What are you doing here, Willa?"
"I’m looking for the truth," I whispered. "Elena did it. She’s been manipulating the collar every time she cleaned the master suite."
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Jared didn't question me. He walked to me, his presence overwhelming. "Why would she? She’s a widow. She has nothing to gain from my suffering."
"Maybe she’s not doing it for herself," I said. "Maybe she’s doing it for someone who wants to see you fall."
