Chapter 7 - Behind Closed Doors
That night, a severe thunderstorm knocked out power to the east wing of the estate. The emergency generators kicked in, casting long, eerie shadows across the grand hallways.
In his private study, Daniel Whitmore sat behind his desk, reviewing the mansion’s security footage from the garden incident earlier that day. He zoomed in on the high-definition footage of the rose garden, playing the video in slow motion.
He watched as Olivia stepped away. He watched as Emily pushed her cart along the designated path. And then, clearly captured from an overhead angle, he saw Vanessa’s hand reach out and deliberately slide the jar of black paint to the very edge of the table, angling it so that even the slightest vibration from the passing cart would send it crashing down.
Daniel closed his eyes, letting out a long, heavy breath. He pinched the bridge of his nose, the exhaustion of the past two weeks catching up to him.
A soft knock sounded at his study door.
“Come in,” Daniel said.
The door opened, and Dr. Melissa Grant walked in, holding a glass of scotch. She was composed, as always, her posture straight and commanding.
“Daniel,” she said, closing the door behind her. “I saw your study light was on. I thought we might have an honest conversation.”
“About what, Melissa?”
“About this absurd experiment,” she said plainly, sitting in the leather chair across from his desk. “You brought five wealthy, prominent women here under the guise of finding a mother for Ethan. But let’s be realistic. You don't need a mother for your son; you need a partner who can handle your lifestyle.”
Daniel leaned back in his chair, watching her. “Go on.”
“Vanessa is a superficial socialite who sabotages people for fun. Olivia is an arrogant narcissist who cares more about her wardrobe than your child. Katherine is a ruthless corporate strategist who sees Ethan as a chess piece. And Lauren... Lauren is too quiet, hiding whatever motives she has.”
“And what about you, Melissa?” Daniel asked smoothly.
“I am pragmatic,” she said coldly. “I have a successful career. I don't need your money, Daniel. What I offer is stability, prestige, and efficiency. I can manage your household, arrange the best education for Ethan, and stand beside you at international summits without embarrassing you.”
“And what about affection?” Daniel asked. “What about love for my son?”
Melissa let out a short, dismissive laugh. “Love is an emotion that fluctuates, Daniel. Structure and success are permanent. Ethan doesn't need emotional coddling. He needs to be prepared for the real world.”
Daniel looked at her for a long moment before speaking. “Thank you for your honesty, Melissa.”
“Think about it,” she said, standing up and smoothing her dress. “The thirty days are half over. You need to make a choice that aligns with your legacy.”
After Melissa left, Daniel remained at his desk in the semi-darkness. He pulled up another video file on his computer—footage from the previous evening in the small kitchen pantry.
May you like
On the screen, he saw Ethan sitting on a small wooden stool, crying after having a nightmare about his late mother. And beside him sat Emily, holding the boy gently, softly singing an old lullaby until his breathing slowed down and he fell back asleep in her arms. Emily had stayed in that uncomfortable wooden chair for two hours, holding Ethan so he wouldn't wake up scared in the dark.
Daniel closed his laptop, the contrast between the world of wealth and the world of true human kindness becoming clearer with every passing second.
