The grand entrance hall of the Hawthorne Mansion was filled with tension - Insight
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Chapter 12 / 30
Chapter 12 - The Whispered WarningAs the waiter moved through the crowd toward Eleanor and Sarah, Sarah’s sharp eyes noticed something subtle. The waiter’s hands were trembling slightly, and he kept his gaze fixed strictly on one specific glass on his tray.
Having worked in service for years, Sarah instantly recognized the nervous demeanor of someone doing something wrong.
"Excuse me," Sarah said politely, stepping directly into the waiter’s path before he could reach Eleanor.
The waiter froze, his eyes darting frantically around the room. "Can I... offer you some champagne, Miss?"
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"I’ll take that specific glass," Sarah said calmly, reaching toward the exact glass he had been holding for Eleanor.
The waiter panicked, accidentally dropping the tray. The crystal glasses shattered onto the floor, spilling liquid everywhere.
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Chapter 13 - Caught in the ActThe loud crash of breaking glass drew the attention of nearby guests and security guards. The waiter turned and tried to bolt toward the kitchen exit, but Alexander’s security team tackled him to the floor within seconds.
Chapter 14 - The Hunt for RichardPolice sirens cut through the night air as law enforcement raided Richard’s luxury apartment, but he had already fled. He had realized the plan failed the moment the waiter was detained.
Chapter 15 - The Traitor WithinAn investigation into Richard’s recent contacts revealed a shocking connection: he hadn't been acting alone. Victoria had provided the funds to bribe the hotel staff and help Richard evade security.
Chapter 16 - End of the RoadIt wasn't just the police waiting for Victoria—Alexander was standing beside the lead detective.
Chapter 17 - The Missing HeirloomWith Victoria in police custody and Richard on the run across state lines, a sense of temporary relief returned to Hawthorne Mansion.
Chapter 18 - A Message in the NightThat night, a envelope was slipped under the main gate of the mansion. Inside was a single photograph of the missing deed and a handwritten note from Richard:
