Chapter 390

Neither Leonard's nor Margaret's expressions flickered.

Grace stepped forward, her voice smooth as silk. "Leonard, firing her now might raise suspicions about our involvement. It could further tarnish Evelyn's reputation. Perhaps docking six months' salary would serve as sufficient warning - both to her and the other staff."

Leonard's sharp gaze met Grace's, instantly deciphering the unspoken message in her eyes. His jaw tightened momentarily before he addressed the trembling maid with icy precision. "You'll forfeit six months' wages. Consider this your final warning. Another misstep and you'll be out on the street without references."

"Understood! This will never happen again! Thank you for your mercy, Mr. and Mrs. Grant. Thank you, Miss Hartley," the maid stammered, relief washing over her features.

For someone employed at the prestigious Grant estate, losing half a year's income was devastating. Yet it was a price worth paying to keep her coveted position.

"Leave us," Leonard commanded with an impatient wave.

The maid scurried away like a frightened mouse.

As Leonard turned toward Evelyn, she rose gracefully. "Leonard, Margaret, I'm exhausted. I'll retire for the evening."

Leonard searched her face, words hovering on his lips. Finally, he simply nodded. "Of course. Rest well."

A ghost of a smile touched Evelyn's lips. "Happy birthday, Leonard."

"Thank you," he replied automatically, though the celebration had long since lost its joy. The evening's events had cast an unmistakable shadow over what should have been a joyous occasion.

Evelyn ascended the grand staircase without looking back.

The moment she disappeared, Leonard's expression darkened. He fixed Margaret with a penetrating stare. "That maid - you suspect something?"

Margaret gave a barely perceptible nod. "She's too convenient. We should monitor her discreetly."

Leonard's silence spoke volumes.

Meanwhile, in her chambers, Evelyn changed from her elegant gown into a silk robe. Settling onto the chaise lounge, she wondered if Nathan would return tonight. The click of the door opening answered her unspoken question.

Nathan stood framed in the doorway.

Their eyes locked in a charged silence, a thousand unspoken words passing between them.

Crossing the threshold, Nathan closed the door with deliberate care. His measured footsteps echoed as he approached, stopping just beyond arm's reach. His first words cut through the tension like a knife. "Why did you push Serena?"

A bitter laugh escaped Evelyn's lips, laced with self-mockery. She met his gaze head-on, countering with her own question. "So you've already convicted me based on Serena's account?"

"I saw your hand move," Nathan stated calmly, his deep voice resonating with quiet intensity.

Evelyn's voice sharpened. "And that's proof enough for you? A single gesture makes me guilty?"