Chapter 12 - The Hidden Transcripts
As the officers escorted a silent, trembling Claire out of the hall, the remaining guests began to quietly disperse, escorted to their vehicles by estate staff. The grand banquet hall, once filled with music and laughter, felt hollow and cold under the bright chandelier light.
Victoria sat down at the head of the table, pulling Leo onto her lap and holding him tightly against her chest. The young boy, unaware of the full severity of the night's events, leaned his head against his mother’s shoulder, his small fingers twisting in the fabric of her ivory gown.
Emma remained nearby, helping the cleanup crew clear the broken crystal from the marble floor. As she bent down to pick up a stray fragment near Victoria’s chair, Victoria reached out and gently touched her shoulder.
“You’re not cleaning tonight, Emma,” Victoria said quietly. “Starting tomorrow, you are no longer part of the domestic staff.”
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Emma froze, her heart sinking into her chest. “Mrs. Sterling... please. I didn't mean to cause a scene—”
“You misunderstand me,” Victoria interrupted, a small, genuine smile breaking through her cold demeanor. “I am appointing you as Leo’s personal supervisor and head of household security. Your salary will be quadrupled, and you will report directly to me.”
