Page 11

TEN

ANONYMOUS

Welcome to The Splendors Mansion. Did you know you’d be watched? No. And here you are, in a gilded cage, as we speak.

You’re careful, playing naive. Way over your head, though you’ve yet to realize that.

I can tell you’re used to working with people. You’re good with the staff. You don’t like being told what to do, especially when your superior is a man who isn’t falling for your charms, but you handle it well.

Pretty, too. Observant. While you’re given a tour, you study everything with the diligence of a spy.

You think you know what you’re doing. I’d say, “Good for you,” but that won’t work at The Splendors.

And then you spot the first camera.

For a second, your expression stiffens. You look straight at me from the screen. I rewatch this part several times—the look of surprise on your face is priceless.

You drop your gaze and ask about the camera.

Does it bother you that you’re being watched? I’ll be watching you at all times. I’ll know your every step.

The Splendors Mansion is a trap. This place swallows people and spits them out—all chewed up. Or dead.

You shouldn’t have come here, Na-ta-lie .