Chapter 179
The wooden door creaked open with a piercing sound.
The walls were covered with distorted paintings in unsettling, unnatural colors.
Evelyn Roland's fingertips lightly traced the canvas, feeling the uneven texture of dried paint.
Sebastian Valdemar narrowed his eyes, observing her focused expression.
The artworks were dominated by clashing shades of green and black, with brushstrokes so chaotic they bordered on madness.
As a professional designer, Evelyn possessed an acute sensitivity to art.
Each painting depicted the same recurring scene - a woman being forcibly administered medication.
"Mommy..."
Hugo Laurent suddenly choked back a sob, tears welling in his eyes.
Sebastian and Evelyn exchanged a knowing glance.
"Mr. Laurent," Evelyn said softly, "Your wife's death... may not have been an accident."
Henry Laurent froze as if struck by lightning, his face turning deathly pale.
"That's impossible..." he muttered unconsciously, his fingers tightening into fists.
Footsteps echoed in the hallway. Evelyn immediately raised a warning finger.
"Stay calm," she whispered.
The housekeeper entered carrying a wooden tray with a recipe book and utensils.
Evelyn casually picked up a utensil and sniffed it discreetly.
The recipe pages rustled in her hands.
"Prunes every week?" She arched an eyebrow.
The housekeeper kept her head down, shoulders trembling almost imperceptibly.
Meanwhile, Sebastian noticed something on the bed.
"The doll's hands have discolored," he said gravely.
Evelyn hurried over to examine it.
Henry followed anxiously.
"My doll! Give me my doll!"
Hugo suddenly lunged forward with terrifying ferocity.
Sebastian swiftly shielded Evelyn with his body.
"Evil people!" Hugo shrieked hysterically. "I'll kill you all!"
In the corner, the housekeeper stood frozen, her back drenched in cold sweat.