Chapter 2 - The Unseen Witness
In the wake of Lorenzo’s arrival, the atmosphere throughout the estate turned razor-thin with tension. Mrs. Gable worked the staff relentlessly, desperate to prevent the new boss from discovering any flaws in how the house was managed. Nora, now thoroughly exhausted, continued her secret routine of sneaking warmth, fresh food, and gentle conversation to Giovanni in room 4B whenever she could slip away unnoticed.
Meanwhile, Lorenzo conducted his high-stakes criminal affairs from his study, insulated from the domestic staff. However, his suspicion began to grow regarding estate expenditures and the true management of the household. During a quiet evening walk through the grand corridors, Lorenzo caught a fleeting glimpse of Nora struggling under the weight of heavy tasks assigned by Mrs. Gable. Though he did not intervene, her weary face stayed in his mind.
Late one night, Lorenzo paid a surprise visit to his father's quarters. Expecting the cold, neglected room described in passing by the staff, he was shocked to find a warm fire burning, clean linens, and a soft blanket tucked gently around the old man. As Lorenzo stood by his father's side, Giovanni’s eyes moved subtly toward a small handmade craft Nora had left on the bedside table—a quiet clue to who was truly tending to him.
