Chapter 1 - The Guarded Cellar“The old servant's quarters,” Dante said, his voice dropping into that cold, polished cadence he used when he wanted a decision to sound like an execution. “Down in the service wing. Until this matter is resolved.”
Grace didn't blink. She didn't flinch.
She had survived growing up in a town where people judged your worth by the make of your father’s truck and the size of your house. She had learned long ago that when someone tries to make you feel small by locking you away, you don't shrink—you make the room you're in feel entirely too heavy for them.
“Resolved,” Grace repeated quietly. “Is that what you call a framed employee and a missing heirloom?”
Vanessa placed a gentle hand on Dante’s arm. “Don't let her manipulate you, Dante. People like her always play the victim when they're caught.”
Grace looked at Vanessa, her brown eyes flashing with a sharp, immovable dignity. Then she looked back at Dante.
“You’ve known me for three months, Mr. Moretti,” Grace said, her voice steady enough to rattle the crystal flutes nearby. “You trusted me with your mother’s daily care. You trusted me in your home. If you honestly believe I’m a common thief, then you’re not just a coward for letting your fiancée stage this—you’re a terrible judge of character.”
She turned on her heel before security could touch her, walking down the long corridor toward the service wing with her head held high.
May you like
Behind her, Dante stood frozen, a strange, uncomfortable prickle of unease settling deep in his chest. But Vanessa quickly smoothed over the tension, turning back to the guests. “Let’s return to the salon, everyone. A little domestic confusion shouldn't ruin a wonderful evening.”
Little did they know, the real confusion was about to turn the mansion upside down.
