Chapter 7 - The Service Corridor
Paige found Catherine near the service corridor fifteen minutes before dinner.
“You actually came,” Paige said.
“I was invited.”
“You were summoned. There’s a difference.”
Paige’s emerald gown sparkled as she stepped closer.
“Mother wants a family photograph. Smile, stay quiet, and leave after dessert.”
Catherine looked toward the ballroom.
“Did Father tell you why the building department has been contacting him?”
Paige rolled her eyes.
“He said you’re trying to ruin my graduation.”
“This building may be unsafe.”
“You always do this.”
“Do what?”
“Turn everything into a competition.”
Catherine almost laughed.
“I designed this ballroom.”
“You drew some early sketches.”
“I created the structural concept, layout, restoration plan, and safety specifications.”
“And yet your name isn’t anywhere.”
Paige’s smile sharpened.
“Maybe that’s because no one considers you important.”
Catherine turned to leave.
Paige noticed the corner of the sealed folder inside her bag.
“What is that?”
“Nothing that belongs to you.”
Paige grabbed the strap.
Catherine pulled back.
“Let go.”
“Give me the folder.”
“No.”
Paige tried to tear the bag away. Her ring scratched Catherine’s cheek, and one sharp edge caught the skin near her neck. Catherine stumbled against the wall but kept hold of the documents.
Paige froze when she saw the marks.
For one moment, she looked frightened.
Then her expression changed.
“Look at you,” she whispered. “Nobody is going to believe you arrived like that because of me.”
Catherine pressed a hand to her cheek.
“You should have stayed gone,” Paige continued. “You don’t belong in this family.”
Neither woman noticed the small red light inside Catherine’s bag.
The entire exchange had been recorded.
A staff member appeared at the end of the corridor. Paige immediately stepped away.
“There you are,” she said loudly. “We’ve been looking everywhere for you.”
Then she walked back into the ballroom wearing the smile of the beloved daughter.
Catherine remained in the corridor for several seconds.
She could have left.
May you like
Instead, she called Mara.
“Begin the inspection.”
