Chapter 76: Eleanor's Fear

Eleanor sat in her study, her face illuminated by the dim light of her desk lamp. The room was filled with the scent of old books and polished wood, the air heavy with tension. She was deep in thought, her mind racing through the tangled web of deceit she had spun. Her plans were in disarray, and she found herself grappling with unforeseen complications. Stephen had recently told her to release Rachel, citing his fear of potential issues. He'd always been too cautious, a trait Eleanor found increasingly frustrating. "Chicken-hearted," she muttered under her breath, recalling their conversation. Stephen had insisted on avoiding any further problems, a sentiment that Eleanor deemed weak and unacceptable. As she mulled over Stephen's cowardice, she recalled Richard's recent report: Alexander hadn't been to work for two days. Olivia had confirmed that they weren’t at home either, having been sent to check on their whereabouts. Eleanor's frustration grew as she contemplated their next mo