Chapter 4 - The Walls of Belandi Manor|
The Belandi estate sat on a lonely cliff overlooking the churning Atlantic Ocean. It was a massive fortress of dark granite, surrounded by tall iron gates and guarded by armed men in dark suits.
When the SUV pulled up the winding driveway, Evelyn felt the weight of the place settle over her chest. It felt less like a home and more like a high-security prison decorated in velvet and gold.
A stern woman in a crisp gray uniform stood at the front doors. Mrs. Vance, the head housekeeper, looked Evelyn up and down with obvious disapproval.
"This is the girl from the restaurant, Mr. Belandi?" Mrs. Vance asked, her voice sharp as broken glass.
"She is the children's new personal attendant," Adrien instructed as he helped the triplets out of the vehicle. "Prepare the suite next to the nursery for her."
Mrs. Vance’s eyes narrowed at Evelyn. "She has no credentials. No training in pediatric psychology—"
"She achieved in one evening what four world-class psychologists failed to do in two years," Adrien cut her off coldly. "Show her to her room, Mrs. Vance. And ensure she has whatever she needs."
The housekeeper stiffened, bowing her head slightly. "Yes, sir."
Adrien turned to Evelyn. "Get some rest. Tomorrow morning, your work begins."
He knelt down briefly in front of the triplets, brushing Mia’s dark curls back with surprising tenderness before turning and walking down the dark corridor toward his private study.
May you like
Mrs. Vance turned to Evelyn, her expression cold and unwelcoming. "Follow me, Miss Hart. And remember where you are. In this house, walls have ears, and step outside your bounds, you won't just lose your job."
Evelyn clutched her small canvas bag tightly to her side and followed the housekeeper into the dark depths of the manor.
