Chapter 2: The Name on the Screen
The sirens reached the mansion before Eleanor could compose herself.
She descended the staircase slowly, her heels clicking against each marble step, her expression already rearranging itself into something soft and grieving.
"This is a private family matter," she said to the two officers at the door.
"The girl lost her footing.
It was an accident."
Arthur didn't move.
Didn't blink.
"I have a different account," he said quietly.
Eleanor's eyes snapped to him.
For the first time, something flickered behind her composure.
"Arthur." Her voice dropped to a warning.
"You have served this family for forty years.
Think very carefully."
"I am," he said.
Sarah was sitting on the foyer bench, still shaking, one hand pressed flat against her belly.
A paramedic crouched beside her, speaking in a low voice.
But Sarah's eyes were fixed on Eleanor.
"She planned this," Sarah said.
"This wasn't the first time she threatened me."
One of the officers turned toward Eleanor.
"Ma'am, we'll need a formal statement from everyone present."
Eleanor smiled — the same cold, practiced smile.
"Of course.
I have nothing to hide."
But then her phone buzzed.
She glanced down.
The color drained from her face.
May you like
The name on the screen was the one person she had never expected to call.
Her son.
