Chapter 9 - The Debt Repaid
Arthur slowly turned his back on the closed doors. He took a deep, heavy breath, instantly slipping away from the ruthless executioner and returning to the protective, loving grandson.
He walked back to Eleanor, who was still leaning against the young maid, trembling softly.
Arthur gently placed the recovered diamond ring and earrings onto the small silver tray the maid was still holding. Then, he looked the terrified young woman directly in the eyes.
"What is your name?" Arthur asked softly, his tone ringing with profound respect.
"Maria, sir," the maid whispered nervously.
"You found her in the basement. You untied her. And you bravely brought her to me knowing Victoria might retaliate," Arthur said, the absolute power of his wealth backing his words. "You are no longer a maid in my house, Maria. You are my grandmother’s personal companion. Your salary is quadrupled, and your family's debts are permanently erased."
Maria gasped, covering her mouth with her free hand, bursting into tears of pure, unadulterated joy and relief. She had risked her job to do the right thing, and she had just secured her entire future.
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Arthur gently picked up the heavy, dented gold locket from the silver tray.
👉 Arthur handed the precious heirloom back to his grandmother, sealing an unbreakable vow of protection.
