Chapter 7: Secrets Woven into Bloodlines
Back inside, I busied myself helping Grandmama clear away the remnants of breakfast. Alessio lingered for a moment, then muttered something about checking the perimeter and slipped out again—leaving me to fend for myself against Grandmama’s judgmental stare.
"Do you know how to chop wood, girl?" she asked abruptly, handing me a knife to peel potatoes.
"I know how to watch people chop wood," I replied, earning a snort.
"Useless city folk," she muttered, but it almost sounded fond.
As I worked, my thoughts kept circling back to a gnawing worry I hadn’t dared to voice before. Both Alessio and Grandmama were clearly capable, and they seemed confident that we were safe here—for now. But the knot in my stomach wouldn’t let me feel at ease.
When Alessio finally returned, I couldn’t hold it in any longer. "Can I ask you something?"
He raised his eyebrows slightly and leaned against the doorframe. "Of course."
I hesitated, glancing at Grandmama, who seemed preoccupied but was undoubtedly listening. "Are you sure Marius doesn’t know about Clara and her family? About... this place?"
Alessio’s expression remained calm. "It’s unlikely. Clara’s background was carefully forged before she ever entered the Wittelsbach estate. She was registered as a commoner from a small village far from here, and Marius never had reason to doubt it. Her placement as a maid wasn’t by chance—it was part of my investigation."
My hands froze mid-peel. "You sent Clara?"
He nodded. "I needed someone trustworthy to observe the manor from the inside. Clara was perfect—discreet, resourceful, and capable of blending in."