Chapter 387

The drive from Coronia University to Juliette Blackwood's estate took roughly two hours.

The uneven country roads made for a bumpy ride. Harrison Whitmore spent the journey briefing Evelyn Carter and Callum Blackwood about Juliette's background.

She was the sole heiress of the prestigious Blackwood fortune. The grandeur of the family's mansion became immediately apparent as they pulled up the winding driveway.

The sprawling estate boasted classic Georgian architecture, with manicured hedges framing a rose garden in full bloom. A marble fountain glistened in the afternoon sun.

"We're here," Callum announced, stepping out of the car first.

Harrison gave Evelyn's hand a reassuring squeeze. "Let's take a look."

Evelyn nodded and followed him onto the cobblestone path.

The trio stood before the imposing double doors, examining the well-preserved property.

Callum tilted his head. "Strange. The Blackwoods haven't lived here in years, yet the place looks freshly maintained."

He pressed the antique doorbell.

Moments later, an elderly woman in a starched uniform appeared. Her sharp eyes assessed them through the wrought iron gate. "May I help you?"

Evelyn offered her most charming smile. "Good afternoon. Is this the Blackwood residence?"

The housekeeper's gaze turned wary. "And you are?"

Before Evelyn could respond, Harrison smoothly interjected, "We're Juliette's friends. She asked us to retrieve something for her."

Evelyn shot him a questioning look. Harrison responded with a barely perceptible wink.

The housekeeper's frown deepened. "Miss Juliette's friends?"

"Indeed."

As the woman hesitated, Callum produced his phone with a flourish. "See? She texted us this morning about collecting one of her design portfolios."

The housekeeper's expression softened when she saw the fabricated message thread. She unlatched the gate with sudden enthusiasm.

"Oh my! The young mistress hasn't had visitors in ages! Please, come in!"

Evelyn arched an eyebrow at Callum, who merely smirked in response. Without further explanation, they followed the chatty housekeeper inside.

"I've served the Blackwoods for thirty years," the woman prattled as she led them through a marble foyer. "After the master and mistress passed, I planned to retire. But dear Juliette insisted I stay on as caretaker."

She ushered them into a sunlit parlor filled with antique furniture. "Make yourselves comfortable. I'll prepare some tea."

The moment the housekeeper disappeared, Evelyn whirled on Callum. "What was that text about?"

Callum exchanged an amused glance with Harrison. "Photoshop magic. Nothing to worry about."

"That actually worked?" Evelyn marveled at their audacity.

Harrison leaned closer, his voice dropping. "Focus, Evelyn. We're here to uncover the truth about Juliette."

The clatter of teacups announced the housekeeper's return. Evelyn sprang up to assist.

"Allow me."

"Nonsense, dear," the housekeeper tutted, arranging the porcelain set with practiced ease. "This old bird still knows how to serve proper tea."

As the fragrant steam curled between them, Evelyn studied their hostess with new interest. The game was afoot.