Chapter 70

The Shattered Arrangement

Astor adjusted his cufflinks, glancing at his reflection in the mirror. His jaw was set, his expression grim. Tonight was important.

He had planned everything meticulously, ensuring Susan wouldn’t suspect a thing.

“Dinner is at eight,” he reminded Brandon, who stood by the door.

“Yes, sir,” Brandon replied, his tone steady.

“And Charlotte?” Astor asked, his voice softening slightly.

“She’s in the guest room preparing,” Brandon said.

Astor nodded, exhaling slowly. “Good. Everything needs to go as planned.”

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In the kitchen, Elena and the other staff worked efficiently to prepare the evening’s meal. The scent of roasted chicken and freshly baked bread filled the...