A floorboard creaked in the hallway. Nora rushed into the kitchen in her housekeeping uniform. “Lily!” The alarm on her face turned to terror when she saw Graham.

“Mr. Mercer, I am so sorry. She knows she isn’t supposed to leave our room.”

“It’s all right.”

Nora took Lily’s hand. “No, sir. Ms. Hale was very clear.”

“I’m being clear now. Lily is allowed to eat breakfast.”

Nora stared at him. Graham lowered his voice. “How long has Vanessa been threatening you?”