Chapter 389

The elderly housekeeper sighed deeply. "Ever since Ms. Juliette's accident, she's avoided this place like the plague. Too many painful memories linger here. These are all her earlier creations. Did you locate the specific sketch she mentioned?"

Evelyn's fingers trembled slightly against the drawings. "That's not exactly it," she murmured under her breath.

Pulling out her phone with deliberate slowness, she continued, "I'm uncertain which one she meant. I'll photograph them all for verification."

The housekeeper nodded without suspicion. "Of course, dear. While you're at it, could you inquire if Ms. Juliette plans to visit soon? The manor feels so empty without her."

There was unmistakable longing in the elderly woman's voice.

Evelyn studied the caretaker's weathered face. The woman had clearly devoted her life to this family. Unlike Evelyn's own childhood - though parentless, she'd never wanted for comfort or care under Dominic's protection.

"You watched Juliette grow up. You must share a special bond?"

The housekeeper straightened her apron. "I know my place, miss. Just the hired help."

Her tone brooked no further discussion.

Evelyn focused on photographing the sketches, the camera shutter clicking like a metronome.

"Even as Juliette's closest friends, we barely know her preferences. With her birthday approaching, we're at a loss for gift ideas. You must have suggestions?"

At this, the housekeeper's stern expression softened. She began speaking with unexpected warmth.

"Ms. Juliette was always the sweetest child. The entire Blackwood family adored her. Mr. and Mrs. Blackwood spoiled her rotten, truth be told."

Her fingers traced the edge of a dusty frame. "She showed artistic talent practically from the cradle. By five, her mother enrolled her in prestigious art academies."

The floodgates opened. The housekeeper shared intimate details - Juliette's favorite paints, how she'd sing while working, the way sunlight caught her hair in the conservatory. Each memory was polished with obvious affection.

Then her voice broke. "If only... if only her parents had lived. She'd have remained that radiant girl."

The air grew heavy with unshed tears.

Evelyn bit her lip before pressing forward. "About the accident five years ago... what exactly happened?"

The housekeeper's spine stiffened. "The authorities concluded their investigation years ago. A tragic accident, nothing more. We don't speak of it."

She abruptly changed subjects. "Did you find the sketch?"

Evelyn produced two drawings from the pile. "These match Juliette's description."

Relief washed over the caretaker's face. "Thank heavens! Ms. Juliette will be so relieved. I'll store the others properly now."

"You've been tremendously helpful."

Outside Blackwood Manor, Evelyn's grip on the designs turned white-knuckled. Her silence spoke volumes.

Harrison matched her stride. "This confirms it - Juliette's transformation began with that accident. Everything traces back to that moment."

Callum practically vibrated with excitement as he brandished his phone like Excalibur.

"Harrison! I've dug up the original accident reports. Even better - I know the lead investigator personally. Should we pay him a visit?"

True to form, Callum's phone rang before the words fully left his mouth. He flashed them an apologetic grin. "Duty calls."