Chapter One: The Call That Changed Everything
Emma's hand shook so badly that she nearly dropped the phone.
"Detective Harris," she whispered through clenched teeth. "It's happening now. Send everyone to the Ashford estate."
The line disconnected.
Silence settled over the grand foyer.
Victoria, Emma's sister-in-law, forced another sob and clung to the frightened maid.
"She attacked me!" Victoria cried. "Look at her! She's trying to destroy this family!"
The Ashford family hesitated.
Edward Ashford, Emma's father-in-law, looked from Victoria to Emma, who remained on the marble floor, one arm wrapped protectively around her pregnant stomach.
Then he noticed something.
Emma wasn't looking at Victoria.
She was staring at the security camera mounted above the staircase.
A calm smile crossed her face.
Within minutes, flashing blue lights illuminated the mansion windows.
Police officers entered, followed by Detective Michael Harris.
"I need everyone to remain exactly where they are," he announced.
Victoria's confidence faltered.
Emma struggled to sit up.
"I want the footage from every camera in this house preserved immediately."
Detective Harris nodded.
"It already has been."
Victoria's face turned pale.
"What do you mean?"
Emma looked directly at her.
"I called Detective Harris two weeks ago."
May you like
The room fell silent.
"I knew someone had been trying to force me out of this family. Tonight was simply the first time they made a mistake on camera."
