Chapter 4 - The Poisoned Tea
“Make sure that girl’s background check is leaked to the press by tomorrow morning, Arthur,” Evelyn hissed under her breath, her eyes burning with vindictive jealousy. “If she stays in this house another week, she will ruin everything I’ve worked three years to build.”
Evelyn Vance had spent three long years positioning herself as the indispensable matriarch of the Vale mansion following the tragic death of Dominic’s wife. She had deliberately driven away every single nanny who attempted to bond with little Noah, keeping the boy isolated, terrified, and aggressive so Dominic would remain entirely dependent on her supervision.
By two o'clock the next afternoon, the mansion was peaceful.
Clara sat in the sunlit nursery on the second floor, helping Noah piece together a wooden train set. The four-year-old boy, who hadn't spoken more than ten words a month, was now giggling softly as Clara made whistle sounds with her mouth.
The nursery door swung open, and Evelyn walked in holding a silver tray with a steaming porcelain cup of tea.
“You’ve done wonders with the boy, Clara,” Evelyn purred with fake warmth, placing the cup on the low wooden table. “Mr. Vale asked me to bring you his private chamomile blend to thank you for your hard work.”
Clara looked up politely. “Thank you, Miss Vance. That’s very kind of you.”
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Evelyn smiled sweetly, stepping back toward the door. “Drink it while it’s hot, dear. You look so tired.”
👉 As soon as Evelyn closed the door, Noah reached over and accidentally knocked the porcelain cup off the table!
