Chapter 3 - The New Terms
The next morning, Emily returned to the Hawthorne mansion, but not through the servants' entrance. She walked right through the front doors, dressed in a professional blazer and slacks, her old uniform gone forever.
Richard was waiting for her in the grand foyer, holding a legal document.
"This is a contract," Richard said, handing it to her. "You are no longer a housekeeper. You are the Head of Child Development and Estate Management. You answer only to me. You have full authority over who enters this house, including my business associates."
Emily scanned the document. The salary was astronomical, but she didn't care about the numbers. She looked at the clause that mattered: Emily Carter has final authority regarding the children's daily care and well-being.
"And Victoria?" Emily asked.
"Her lawyers are trying to fight the charges, claiming it was an accident," Richard said, a dangerous glint in his eye. "But I have my tech team extracting data from the house's smart system. She didn't realize the playroom had an upgraded audio-monitoring system I installed last month. I will destroy her in court."
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"Good," Emily said, signing the paper. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have three boys to feed breakfast to."
As Emily walked up the grand staircase, Richard watched her go. For the first time in three years, he didn't just see a capable employee. He saw a woman of immense strength, grace, and dignity—a woman he had deeply wronged, and whom he now desperately wanted to earn the respect of.
