Chapter 4 Cracks in the glass.

Gloria was humming as she arranged fresh lilies in the tall crystal vase that sat in the foyer. For the first time in weeks, she felt a little more in control. The house was running smoothly, the kids were doing well, and Alfred had come home early two nights in a row. That had to mean something.

Emmanuella passed by with a laundry basket in her arms and offered a small smile. "Beautiful flowers, ma'am."

"Thank you," Gloria replied, watching her disappear up the staircase. There was something polished about the girl-too polished. But Gloria shook the thought away. She had always been overly cautious. She reminded herself that suspicion, when unwarranted, could rot a good thing from the inside.

But she wasn't the only one taking notice.

That afternoon, Evelyn-Gloria's close friend and confidante-dropped by for tea. She was sharp, observant, and not one to sugarcoat her opinions.

"Is that the new girl?" Evelyn asked after Emmanuella brought in their drinks and left with a graceful nod.

"Yes. Emmanuella. She's been very helpful," Gloria said, sipping her jasmine tea.

Evelyn leaned back, eyes narrowing. "Too helpful. Where did you find her?"

"The agency. Gabriel actually recommended it."

Evelyn raised a brow. "Gabriel Peter?"

"Yes, why?"

"I don't trust that man," Evelyn muttered. "He's always had a strange energy around him. And he's far too interested in Alfred's affairs for a so-called friend."

Gloria paused, the teacup halfway to her lips. "You think I made a mistake?"

"I think you should keep your eyes open," Evelyn replied. "There's something off. And if Gabriel's involved, it's never innocent."

That night, Alfred came home later than usual. Emmanuella had stayed up, pretending to be reviewing the household inventory, but really waiting for this moment.

As he entered the hall, she greeted him softly. "Long night, sir?"

He gave a tired nod. "Boardroom warfare."

"Would you like me to prepare something? Tea? Warm towel?" Her voice was silk-submissive yet confident.

"No, thank you," Alfred said, then paused. "But... that's thoughtful of you."

As he turned to walk upstairs, Emmanuella watched him with calculating eyes. The charm around her neck pulsed faintly beneath her blouse.

He was resisting-for now.

But Alfred Leonard wouldn't resist forever.

And she wasn't here just to win his affection.

She was here to destroy his life.