#Chapter 20 – Waiting Games

Lila The tension in the hall hadn’t dissipated when Damon dismissed everyone. The girls hurried off, whispering amongst themselves, and Vanessa stomped away with her jaw clenched, her shoulders stiff with barely restrained fury. But before I could follow, Damon’s voice cut through the air. "Elena. Stay behind." I halted mid-step, pulse quickening. Beside me, Helen turned as well, her usual haughty demeanor cracking just enough to reveal the surprise beneath. Damon's gaze flicked to her. "Helen, due to your indiscriminate punishments, I’ve decided to remove you from your position. A new housekeeper will replace you by dinnertime." Helen stiffened as though she had been slapped. "M-my Lord," she stammered, her voice faltering for the first time. "Please, reconsider! I have served the palace faithfully –" Damon didn’t even spare her a second glance. "Your replacement has already been chosen." I watched as Helen’s face drained of color. Her lips pressed into a thin lin