Chapter 111. Freedom Plan
Maria stood up respectfully as Mr. Frederick descended the staircase, his face lit with a warm smile. "Hello Maria, how are you doing?" he asked in a friendly tone.
"Good morning, sir. I’m doing very fine," Maria replied, returning the smile and bowing slightly in greeting.
Mr. Frederick reached the bottom of the stairs and gestured for her to sit. He took a seat opposite her in the lavish living room and leaned forward, his demeanor shifting to something more serious.
"I know you must be worried about the way I called you here," he began calmly, his eyes locked on hers. "But there’s no need to panic. What you should focus on is preparing for the plan I’m about to share with you."
Maria nodded slowly, trying to calm her racing thoughts. She didn’t interrupt. She needed to hear everything.
"First," he continued, "I want to know how things have been since you returned from the hospital. Especially concerning Bernard and his family. What have you noticed?"
Maria hesitated at first. There was still a part of her that wanted to keep things to herself, but she reminded herself that Mr. Frederick was the only one trying to help her. Slowly, she began to speak.
"I’ve been fine... physically," she began. "But Bernard and his parents have been too nice. Almost unnaturally kind. It makes me uncomfortable, and honestly, it’s raised my suspicions."
She paused, her expression growing more serious. "But what’s more important is what I found out recently about the Staff of Office. I only just learned about it a few days ago."
Mr. Frederick’s face shifted slightly, and he leaned in with more interest. "The Staff of Office?" he repeated, his curiosity evident.
"Yes. A group of elders from the pack visited Gilbert’s mansion. They brought up the Staff of Office and explained that it’s the only thing preventing Bernard from becoming the full Alpha—one with complete powers and authority."