Chapter 8

That night, after the small fire was extinguished and the police confirmed that it hadn’t spread further, William’s house returned to a quiet stillness. But the hearts of its inhabitants were far from calm.

Evelyn sat in the living room, a blanket wrapped tightly around her trembling body. Her face was pale, her breathing uneven, and her heart thudded wildly in her chest. She still couldn’t fully grasp the reality—that someone had tried to burn her alive. In front of her, a warm cup of tea was gently placed on the table by one of the maids.

“Please drink slowly, Miss Evelyn,” the maid said softly.

Evelyn gave a slight nod. Her hand shook as she reached for the cup.

Meanwhile, William stood outside in the yard, speaking with the head of security and the remaining police officers. He issued firm orders—install more cameras around the property, and check every window’s locks and latches.

As the tension began to settle, Rosemary descended the stairs. She wore a maroon satin nightgown, her face painted with feigned worry and carefully placed fake tears.

“Mr. William,” she called softly as she walked toward him. “I know this might not be the right time, but I feel I must speak… for your safety and the safety of this home.”

William turned to face her. His eyes were tired, but he nodded for her to continue.

“I just want to say that… I’m worried about Evelyn’s presence in this house,” she said delicately, though her words carried weight. “You saw what happened tonight. Perhaps… it was a result of her negligence.”

William frowned. “What are you implying?”

Rosemary lowered her gaze and stepped closer. Her voice dropped to a whisper—just loud enough to send Evelyn’s blood boiling.

“I’m merely suggesting… maybe the man who broke in was someone from her past. A former lover, perhaps. Or… maybe Evelyn has her own agenda. You know, sir. She’s an outsider. We know nothing about her background.”

William stared at her sharply.

“You’re accusing Evelyn of working with that man?”

“I’m not accusing, sir… I’m only suspicious. After all, how else would someone know exactly which room she was sleeping in unless someone from inside told them? And forgive me for saying this, but… Evelyn can be careless. She could’ve dropped something, lit a candle, and accidentally started the fire herself.”

That was enough.

Evelyn stood from the sofa, her steps firm as she approached.

“What are you saying, Rosemary?! You’re unbelievable!”

Rosemary turned with a pitiful look. “I’m only trying to protect this house, Evelyn. Not everyone belongs here.”

“Stop pretending like you care! You just want me gone!”

“Enough!” William’s voice thundered through the room, silencing them both.

He stepped forward, his glare fixed on Rosemary—cold and cutting.

“Rosemary, you’ve gone too far. I’m not blind. I know you resent her. But accusing someone without evidence? I won’t tolerate that.”

“Sir, I was only—”

“I’ve had enough of this drama! Evelyn is my guest, and her life was nearly taken tonight. Do you think this is the time for baseless accusations?!”

Rosemary paled. “I just wanted to help…”

“By spreading lies?” William’s voice rose. “Do you realize the police could charge you with defamation for what you just said?”

Rosemary bit her lip, her eyes glistening—not with false tears this time, but with real fear.

Evelyn stepped beside William. “That’s enough. I won’t stay silent anymore. If I have to, I’ll speak to the police about how you’ve treated me since the day I arrived.”

Panic flashed across Rosemary’s face. “You’re threatening me?”

“I’m warning you. If you keep harassing me, I won’t just sit back and take it.”

William looked at Evelyn, a mix of pride and concern in his eyes. Her courage was finally showing the woman she truly was.

“Rosemary,” he said firmly. “As of tonight, you no longer need to work in this house. I’ll ensure you’re properly compensated. But you have to leave by morning.”

Rosemary’s face drained of color. “M-Mr. William… you can’t just fire me! I’ve worked here for years!”

“Which is exactly why I’m giving you the chance to leave with dignity. But don’t you dare go near Evelyn again.”

Her lips trembled, her eyes filled with rage and humiliation—but no one cared this time. She spun around and fled to her room, slamming the door and locking herself in, sobbing in bitter frustration.

Evelyn closed her eyes. Her chest felt tight—but somehow, relieved.

William stepped closer. “Are you okay now?”

Evelyn nodded. “Thank you… for standing up for me.”

He looked deeply into her eyes and spoke gently, “From tonight on, you’re not just a guest in this house. I’ll protect you. Anyone who tries to hurt you… will have to go through me first.”

Evelyn looked at him, her eyes glassy. But this time, not from fear.

For the first time, she felt safe.