CHAPTER 3 — THE WOMAN WHO KEPT THE KEYS
CHAPTER 3 — THE WOMAN WHO KEPT THE KEYS
That evening, Chloe remained under observation at the hospital.
Doctors confirmed the baby was stable.
The bruising would heal.
The fear would take longer.
Meanwhile, William returned alone to the estate.
Every servant had been asked to remain.
Not because they were in trouble.
Because they had witnessed the truth.
He found Maria quietly standing in the kitchen.
"I'm sorry," she whispered before he could speak.
"I should have helped her."
William shook his head.
"My mother threatened your livelihood."
Maria lowered her eyes.
"She threatened all of us."
She handed him a small leather notebook.
"I've kept records."
William frowned.
"For years."
Inside were dates.
Incidents.
Names.
Household employees dismissed after refusing Eleanor's demands.
Photographs of damaged belongings later blamed on Chloe.
Copies of threatening messages.
Everything carefully documented.
"I hoped someone would believe us one day."
May you like
William closed the notebook.
"I do."
