Chapter 6 - The Secret Hidden Behind the CaneThe mansion was so quiet that the ticking of the grandfather clock echoed through the entrance hall.
Adrian remained beside Eleanor's wheelchair, the polished wooden cane still resting firmly in his hand. He studied it for several seconds before running his thumb across the smooth handle.
His eyes stopped on a tiny silver engraving.
The initials.
E.H.
His breathing slowed.
"I remember this cane," he said quietly.
Eleanor lowered her head.
Victoria forced a nervous laugh.
"It's just an old walking cane. Why is everyone making such a scene?"
Adrian didn't answer her.
Instead, he looked toward Isabella.
"You protected this before you protected yourself."
Isabella swallowed hard.
"Mrs. Harrington couldn't hold on to it. She looked terrified."
Adrian nodded once.
"She was."
Victoria's confidence began slipping away.
"You can't seriously believe a maid over your own family."
Judge Collins stepped forward.
"She's the only one who acted with decency tonight."
Several guests nodded in agreement.
For the first time, Victoria realized the room had turned against her.
Then Adrian carefully opened the carved wooden handle.
A hidden compartment clicked open.
Several guests gasped.
Victoria's face instantly lost every trace of color.
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She hadn't known...
...the cane contained something hidden inside.
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