CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY – THE COST OF TRUE LOVE

The information Silas craved wasn't just idle gossip. He seemed particularly interested in the hushed conversations Lady Griffith had with a portly gentleman with a perpetually worried frown. Charlotte recognized him as Mr. Billingsworth, the family solicitor. Intrigued, she started paying closer attention to Lady Griffith's interactions with Mr. Billingsworth. Their strained exchanges hinted at financial turmoil, a subject veiled with a shroud of secrecy. The next time Silas met Charlotte in his dimly lit den, she relayed the observations. His eyes, sharp as a hawk's, gleamed with excitement. "Ah, Billingsworth! The key to the Griffith's woes lies with him," he cackled, his voice devoid of warmth. "Find out what troubles the solicitor, and you'll find out what truly ails the Griffiths." Unease gnawed at Charlotte. Was Silas simply trying to exploit the family's financial woes for his own gain? Or was there more to it? The question lingered, unanswered, as she set about her new tas