The static was loud in the quiet room.

“Sir,” a guard’s voice whispered through the speaker.

“We have a situation near the southern gate.”

Alexander grabbed the radio and pressed the button.

“Report,” he ordered.

“It’s Vivian, sir,” the guard said.

“She’s at the service garage.”

“She is attempting to bribe one of the drivers to open the gate.”

“She offered him her diamond necklace to get her out of the estate.”

Alexander’s face darkened with anger.

“Do not let her leave,” he commanded.

“Bring her back to the parlor for questioning immediately.”

“Understood, sir,” the radio replied.

I looked at Alexander, my heart hammering against my ribs.

“She knows the truth is coming out,” I whispered.

He looked down at the diary in his hands, then back to me.

“We need to get to the parlor,” he said.

“Not yet,” I said, pointing to the hallway door.

The handle was turning again.

This time, it wasn’t just a gentle rattle.

Someone was using a heavy tool against the frame.

A screech of grinding metal echoed through the room.

The door groaned under the pressure.