Evelyn’s POV
The house was still, almost eerily so. The grand halls and rooms that were filled with life just hours ago were now silent, swallowed by the weight of the night. Everyone had retired to their rooms, leaving only the quiet murmur of the wind outside to accompany the darkness.
I knew better than to assume it was peaceful. In a house like this, there was always someone awake. Someone who knew things, saw things, and could be persuaded to talk—if the right price was offered.
The staff quarters were tucked away in a corner of the house, hidden from view and often forgotten by those who occupied the upper floors. But not by me. I knew where to look, and I knew who might be willing to share what others wouldn’t.
I found Marie in the kitchen. She stood over the sink, her hands sub
