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The Housemaid: An absolutely addictive psychological thriller with a jaw-dropping twist

By Freida McFadden

Summary of The Housemaid: An absolutely addictive psychological thriller with a jaw-dropping twist

The book tells the story of Millie, a young woman who has just been released from prison and is trying to start a new life. She lands a job as a live-in housekeeper for the wealthy Winchester family, but soon discovers that the family is not as perfect as they seem. The mother, Nina, is controlling and manipulative, and the father, Andrew, is charming but potentially abusive. As Millie navigates her new role, she uncovers dark secrets about the family's past and becomes embroiled in a complex web of relationships and lies. Meanwhile, Millie's own past and identity are shrouded in mystery, and she must confront the truth about herself in order to escape the clutches of the Winchester household. Throughout the book, the author expertly weaves together themes of trauma, abuse, and survival, creating a suspenseful and thrilling narrative that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. Ultimately, the book is a story about the power of truth and freedom, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Chapter Summary of The Housemaid: An absolutely addictive psychological thriller with a jaw-dropping twist

Prologue

A person sits in their luxurious home with a detective, surrounded by police officers, as they question them about a dead body found in the attic. The individual claims to have discovered the body about an hour prior, after hearing a suspicious sound, but provides minimal information, frustrating the detective. As the interrogation continues, another officer interrupts, urgently calling the detective away to reveal new evidence that has been discovered upstairs, leaving the situation uncertain and tense.

Chapter 1

The scene shifts to a flashback of the person's life before the events in the attic, showing a glimpse of their daily routine and interactions with others. As the day unfolds, subtle hints of tension and unease are revealed, suggesting that not everything is as perfect as it seems in their luxurious world. The person's thoughts and feelings are explored, providing insight into their mindset and potential motivations, but the mystery surrounding the dead body remains, leaving questions about how the events of the prologue came to be.

Chapter 2

The protagonist, Millie, is struggling to make ends meet, living out of her car and eating sandwiches for every meal. She receives a rejection call from a potential employer, Munch Burgers, which further exacerbates her desperation for a fresh start. However, her fortunes take a surprising turn when Nina Winchester, a wealthy woman who had interviewed Millie for a job at her household, calls to offer her the position. Despite initial skepticism, Millie accepts the job and they discuss the details of her start date. As Millie agrees to begin working with Nina, she harbors a secret: she has spent the last ten years of her life in prison, a fact that could potentially change Nina's perception of her.

Chapter 3

Millie arrives at the Winchester home for her first day of work as a live-in housekeeper. She meets the landscaper, Enzo, who speaks little English and seems unfriendly. Despite the language barrier, Enzo helps Millie with her bags and warns her about something in Italian, which she later translates to mean "danger". Millie is introduced to Andrew Winchester, Nina's husband, who appears kind and welcoming. However, Nina's behavior is inconsistent, and Millie starts to feel uneasy about her new living situation. She notices that her bedroom door has a lock on the outside and the window is painted shut, making her feel trapped. As she begins to unpack and settle in, Millie becomes increasingly paranoid and wonders if she has made a mistake by taking the job.

Chapter 4

Millie spends her first day as a live-in housekeeper cleaning the filthy Winchester house, tackling a massive mess in the kitchen. As she finishes up, she meets Cecelia, Nina's daughter, who is pale and eerie. Millie tries to make a snack for Cecelia, but inadvertently offers her peanut butter, which she is severely allergic to. Nina rushes in, having been informed by Cecelia that Millie tried to harm her, and Millie is forced to apologize and promise to be more careful in the future. Despite Nina's forgiveness, Millie is left feeling guilty and anxious about her new role, particularly when Nina asks her to prepare dinner without discussing the details beforehand. Millie is determined to win over the family, but her first day has been marked by a dangerous mistake and a sense of unease.

Chapter 5

Millie finishes preparing dinner for the Winchester family and is complimented by Andrew on her cooking. As Andrew and Nina interact, their affection for each other is apparent, but Nina's behavior towards Millie is cool and possessive, particularly when Andrew praises Millie's cooking. Millie politely declines Andrew's invitation to join them for dinner, sensing Nina's discomfort with the idea, and instead plans to retire to her room. The tension between Nina's welcoming facade and her true feelings towards Millie continues to simmer, leaving Millie to navigate her new role with caution.

Chapter 6

Millie's peaceful night's sleep in her new bedroom is disrupted when she wakes up to find her door seemingly locked, triggering a wave of panic and memories of her past imprisonment. She frantically tries to find a way out, even considering calling 911, but discovers that her phone has no signal. Just as she's about to give up, she manages to open the door, realizing it was only stuck. Although relieved, Millie can't shake off the feeling of unease and wonders if she should leave the Winchester household while she still can, her trust in her new employers begin to waver.

Chapter 7

The morning begins with chaos as Nina frantically searches for her missing notes for the PTA meeting, destroying the kitchen in the process. She accuses Millie of throwing them away, despite Millie's protests of innocence. Andrew intervenes, calming Nina down, and suggests that some of the notes may be saved on the computer. Millie apologizes to appease Nina, who then storms off, leaving Millie to clean up the mess. Andrew offers to help, but Millie insists on doing it herself, noticing that he seems accustomed to cleaning up after Nina's outbursts. As Millie cleans, she reflects on the change in Nina's behavior and the dynamics of the Winchester's marriage, sensing that something has shifted over time.

Chapter 8

Millie's day begins with a trip to the grocery store to replenish the Winchester's food supply, which was depleted after Nina's frantic search for her missing notes. As she shops, Millie reflects on the contrast between her current life and her time in prison, where food options were limited and unappetizing. Upon returning to the house, she is assisted by Enzo, the landscaper, who helps her carry the groceries inside. However, their interaction is cut short when a noise from upstairs interrupts them, and Enzo quickly departs. Millie is then confronted by Nina, who is displeased to learn that Enzo was inside the house and warns Millie not to invite him in again. The conversation takes a turn when Nina discovers that Millie lied about wearing glasses and contacts, leading to a tense exchange and a stern warning from Nina to never lie to her again. The chapter ends with Nina storming out of the house, leaving Millie to clean up the living room and ponder the complexities of her new role and the dynamics of the Winchester household.

Chapter 9

Millie is tasked with making dinner for Andrew and Cecelia while Nina is away at a PTA meeting. She prepares a steak dinner, but Cecelia is unimpressed and requests chicken nuggets instead. Andrew takes it upon himself to teach Millie how to prepare Cecelia's favorite dish, complete with specific instructions on the type of nuggets to use and the exact cooking time. As they interact, Millie finds herself drawn to Andrew's charming and laid-back personality, but she is aware of the need to maintain professional boundaries, especially given Nina's possessive behavior. After the tutorial, Millie declines Andrew's invitation to join them for dinner, citing the potential discomfort it may cause Nina, and instead retires to her room to eat alone. The evening highlights the complexities of Millie's new role and the nuances of the Winchester family's dynamics.

Chapter 10

Millie has been living with the Winchester family for a week and is struggling to cope with Nina's unpredictable mood swings and Cecelia's bratty behavior. The only calm presence in the household is Andrew, who seems to be shouldering the burden of his wife's outbursts. One day, Nina tasks Millie with donating a bag of her old clothes, which are all high-end and size six or eight, despite Nina appearing to be a larger size. Millie is hesitant at first but ultimately accepts the gift, thinking it could be useful for future dates. The conversation takes a turn when Nina reveals that she and Andrew are trying to have a baby, which may explain her moodiness. Nina also gives Millie a key to her room and agrees to have someone look at the painted-shut window, although Millie is skeptical that anything will come of it. The exchange ends with Nina scolding Millie for leaving the garbage bag in the living room, leaving Millie feeling frustrated and uncertain about her place in the household.

Chapter 11

Millie is tasked with picking up Cecelia from school, but things quickly become complicated when she realizes that Nina gave her the wrong school name. After a frantic search, Millie finally arrives at the correct school, only to discover that another woman, Rachel, is supposed to pick up Cecelia for karate practice. The situation becomes awkward as Rachel clarifies with Nina that there was a misunderstanding, and Millie is left feeling confused and frustrated. As she heads back home, Millie can't help but wonder if Nina's behavior is more than just eccentric and demanding, and she recalls a conversation with two women at the school who hinted that Nina might be "nuts". Millie tries to brush off the incident, attributing it to Nina's flighty nature, but the encounter leaves her with a growing sense of unease and curiosity about her employer's true state of mind.

Chapter 12

Millie's curiosity about Nina's mental health grows as she witnesses the disorder in the master bathroom, including a used tampon on the floor. While cleaning, Millie gives in to her curiosity and opens the medicine cabinet, finding numerous medications, including haloperidol, an antipsychotic used to treat conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. However, she is caught by Nina, who asks her about cleaning the sink and expresses a preference for organic cleaning products. After Nina leaves, Millie researches haloperidol on her phone, confirming her suspicions about Nina's mental health and leaving her feeling both ashamed and frightened about what else she might discover.

Chapter 13

Millie attempts to gather more information about Nina's mental health by trying to communicate with Enzo, the landscaper, while he works in the backyard. She brings him water and tries to ask him questions about Nina, but their language barrier and Enzo's reluctance to discuss the topic make it difficult. Despite the challenges, Millie senses that Enzo may understand more English than he lets on and that he may be hesitant to share his thoughts about Nina. Enzo's behavior suggests that he may know something about the Winchester household, but he is not willing to disclose it to Millie, at least not yet. The encounter leaves Millie with more questions and a growing sense of curiosity about the dynamics of the household and Nina's true state of mind.

Chapter 14

Millie has her first parole officer meeting in three weeks, where she is honest about her new job as a housekeeper for the Winchester family, but omits details about Nina's eccentric behavior. After the meeting, Millie has trouble sleeping and decides to watch TV in the living room, where she is joined by Andrew, who is friendly and charming. However, their late-night encounter is interrupted by Nina, who is jealous and possessive, and reprimands Millie for being in the living room in her underwear. Millie tries to apologize and explain, but Nina's behavior becomes increasingly hostile, and Millie eventually reacts by smashing a glass on the floor in frustration. Realizing her mistake, Millie knows she must clean up the mess and be more careful in the future to avoid escalating the situation with Nina.

Chapter 15

Millie is tasked with preparing the Winchester house for a PTA gathering, which is being hosted by Nina in their backyard. As she scrambles to clean the house and prepare for the event, she becomes stressed and overwhelmed by the amount of work that needs to be done. Andrew, Nina's husband, offers to help Millie by picking up hors d'oeuvres, which significantly lightens her workload. As they interact, Millie learns that Cecelia, Nina's daughter, is not Andrew's biological daughter, but he has raised her as his own since marrying Nina. The conversation also hints at the couple's struggles with getting pregnant, which adds to the tension and complexity of the household dynamics. Meanwhile, Millie continues to navigate her role as a housekeeper and tries to make a good impression on Nina, while also dealing with her own feelings and observations about the family.

Chapter 16

Millie is forced to stand at attention during a PTA meeting hosted by Nina in their backyard, where she is belittled and humiliated by Nina and her friends. The women discuss their personal lives, including Nina's attempts to get pregnant, and gossip about each other's appearances and relationships. When Nina steps away, the women continue to talk about her, revealing that she has been in a psychiatric institution and has a prenup with her husband Andrew, which would leave her with nothing if they were to divorce. Millie feels a pang of guilt for getting frustrated with Nina's behavior, realizing that she may have serious mental health issues. Meanwhile, the women's conversation also touches on Millie's own presence in the household, with one of them commenting that Nina must be "out of her mind" to hire a young and attractive maid to live with her and her husband. Millie is careful to keep her distance from Andrew and avoid giving Nina any reason to be jealous.

Chapter 17

The chapter revolves around Andrew and Nina's appointment with a fertility specialist, which ultimately brings devastating news that Nina will not be able to get pregnant. Meanwhile, Millie is tasked with watching Cecelia, who proves to be a handful, demanding an "abalone sandwich" and throwing a tantrum when Millie makes her a bologna sandwich instead. When Andrew and Nina return home, they are clearly upset, and Nina's frustration boils over as she sees the mess in the living room. She lashes out at Millie, leaving Millie feeling uncomfortable and worried about her job. Andrew, however, is more sympathetic and opens up to Millie about their disappointment and his desire to be strong for Nina. He asks Millie to help him get tickets to a show that Nina wants to see, hoping it will lift her spirits. Despite the challenges of working for the Winchester family, Millie agrees to help and tries to be understanding of their situation.

Chapter 18

Millie wakes up to the sound of Andrew and Nina arguing in their bedroom, with Nina's voice becoming hysterical as she blames herself for not being able to get pregnant. The argument escalates, with crashes and shouting, prompting Millie to investigate. She finds Nina standing in the doorway, her nightgown stained with blood, and demands to know if Millie is spying on them. Millie expresses concern for Andrew's safety, but Nina assures her that he is fine, and Millie hears the sound of the faucet turning on in the bathroom, confirming that Andrew is alive. Nina warns Millie to stay in the attic at night, and Millie, intimidated and relieved, agrees to do so. The incident leaves Millie feeling uneasy and uncertain about the dynamics of the Winchester household, particularly Nina's volatile behavior and the tension between her and Andrew.

Chapter 19

The morning after a intense argument between Nina and Andrew, Nina seems to have returned to her normal self, despite having a bandage on her hand. She asks Millie to make her breakfast, and Millie obliges, noticing that Nina eats a large amount of food without worrying about calories. When Andrew comes downstairs, he and Nina exchange a tender moment, which makes Millie feel a pang of jealousy. Later, Enzo, the landscaper, arrives at the door with a package and Millie tries to flirt with him, but he rebuffs her advances, becoming angry and telling her to "get out" because it's "dangerous". Millie is left feeling embarrassed and confused, wondering what Enzo meant by his warning.

Chapter 20

Millie is waiting to pick up Cecelia from her tap-dancing class when she meets Amanda, another woman who is also waiting for the Bernstein twins. Amanda offers Millie painkillers for her headache and they start talking about their employers. Amanda reveals that Nina Winchester, Millie's employer, has a reputation for being unstable and that she was once institutionalized for trying to drown her own daughter, Cecelia, in a bathtub. Millie is shocked and horrified by this revelation, and her perception of Nina and her behavior changes. She realizes that Nina's actions may be more than just eccentric and that she may be capable of real violence. Millie is torn between her need for the job and her fear of Nina's instability, and she wonders if she should quit and leave the household. However, she decides to stay and try to make the best of the situation, at least for the time being, in order to secure her financial future and avoid having to disclose her prison record to potential future employers.

Chapter 21

Millie tries to move a heavy cardboard box that Enzo had brought into the house, but it's too heavy, and she's unsure what's inside. Andrew arrives home and examines the box, revealing it's from his mother, Evelyn Winchester. As they open the box, they find it's filled with baby items, which upsets Andrew given the recent news that he and Nina won't be able to have another child. Millie tries to comfort Andrew, and they share a moment of connection, but Andrew quickly becomes flustered and leaves the room. Before he goes, they exchange a lingering look, suggesting a spark of attraction between them. Meanwhile, Millie continues to navigate her complicated feelings about the Winchester family, particularly Nina's dark past and Andrew's troubled marriage.

Chapter 22

Millie tries to avoid Andrew due to her growing feelings for him, but their paths cross when Nina asks about the tickets to the show "Showdown" that Millie booked. However, a misunderstanding arises as Nina claims she asked Millie to book the tickets for a week from Sunday, not the upcoming Sunday, and she is unable to attend the show due to a prior commitment to take Cecelia to summer camp. Nina is furious and threatens to deduct the cost of the tickets and hotel room from Millie's paycheck, which would be a significant financial burden. Andrew intervenes, offering to help resolve the issue, but the situation leaves Millie feeling frustrated and worried about her financial stability.

Chapter 23

Millie receives two pieces of good news: Andrew has managed to refund the tickets she had booked, and Cecelia will be leaving for summer camp for two weeks. As the family prepares to leave, Millie catches a glimpse of Andrew's kind and charming personality, which she finds herself drawn to. After Nina and Cecelia depart, Andrew reveals that he didn't actually get a refund on the tickets and wants Millie to use them to see the show, even offering to accompany her. Despite initial reservations and concerns about Nina's potential reaction, Millie agrees to go with Andrew, and they make plans to meet up and head to Manhattan. As Millie prepares for the evening, she can't shake off a feeling of unease and temptation, knowing that spending time with Andrew could lead to complicated consequences.

Chapter 24

Millie prepares for a night out at a Broadway show with Andrew, wearing a fancy cocktail dress that Nina had given her. As they get ready to leave, Andrew is taken aback by Millie's appearance, and they share a moment of undeniable attraction. Despite the tension, they head out to the show, with Millie feeling a mix of excitement and guilt about spending time with her employer's husband. As they drive to the theater, Andrew can't help but sneak glances at Millie, and she becomes aware of his gaze, leading to a awkward yet charged moment between them. Meanwhile, Millie tries to push aside her concerns about Nina's potential reaction to their outing, telling herself that they're not doing anything wrong.

Chapter 25

Millie and Andrew attend a Broadway show, where Millie is amazed by the theater and the performance. After the show, they go to a French restaurant for dinner, where Andrew orders for them and they share a bottle of wine. As they dine, Andrew receives a call from Nina, who is upset, and he tries to calm her down. He later confides in Millie about his marriage, revealing that he and Nina have not had sex since learning they cannot have more children. He also shares that Nina has changed significantly since they met, and that he is often the target of her yelling. Millie is drawn to Andrew's charming and vulnerable side, but is also aware of the boundaries and complications of their situation. As the evening progresses, Millie struggles to reconcile her growing feelings for Andrew with the fact that he is her employer and married to Nina.

Chapter 26

Millie and Andrew continue their evening out, enjoying dinner and each other's company, but as the night wears on and they consume more wine, their behavior becomes increasingly flirtatious and reckless. Despite initial reservations, Millie agrees to spend the night at The Plaza hotel with Andrew, with him promising to book separate rooms. However, as they take a taxi to the hotel, their physical proximity and drunken state lead to a romantic and intimate moment, culminating in a kiss. Millie is torn between her attraction to Andrew and her awareness of the complications and potential consequences of their actions, given his marriage to Nina and her position as their employee.

Chapter 27

Millie and Andrew spend the night together at The Plaza hotel, giving in to their attraction after a night of drinking and intimacy. The next morning, they both acknowledge that their encounter was a one-time mistake and cannot happen again due to Andrew's marriage to Nina. Despite this, they share a moment of tenderness and understanding, with Andrew expressing his regret over the circumstances of their meeting and the impossibility of a relationship between them. Millie, meanwhile, is forced to confront the reality of her situation and the secrets she keeps, including her past and her true feelings for Andrew. As they prepare to return home, Millie agrees to keep their encounter a secret from Nina, and they both seem to accept that their night together was a fleeting indulgence that cannot be repeated.

Chapter 28

Millie and Andrew return to the Winchester house after their night together, trying to maintain a sense of normalcy despite the guilt and tension between them. As they arrive, they realize that Millie forgot to put out the garbage the previous night, which could provoke Nina's anger. Andrew offers to take care of the problem and asks Enzo, the landscaper, to dispose of the trash in exchange for $200. Enzo initially refuses but eventually agrees after Andrew increases the offer. As Enzo takes the garbage away, Andrew expresses his dislike for the landscaper, finding him suspicious and wondering why Nina insists on keeping him as their yard worker. Millie, however, is more concerned about Enzo's behavior and the warning he gave her on her first day, hinting that there may be more to the situation than Andrew is aware of.

Chapter 29

Nina returns home from dropping off Cecelia at camp, bringing with her several heavy shopping bags from an impromptu shopping spree. As Millie helps Nina with the bags, Nina mentions that she called the house phone the previous night but no one answered, raising Millie's anxiety as she tries to come up with an explanation for Andrew's and her own whereabouts. Millie knows that she and Andrew were together at The Plaza hotel at the time of the call, and she's relieved that Nina doesn't seem to suspect anything. After depositing the bags in the master bedroom, Millie's thoughts turn to Nina's dark past, specifically the incident where she tried to drown Cecelia in the bathtub. Millie is reminded of the need to keep her secret with Andrew hidden from Nina, knowing that it could have devastating consequences. She sends Andrew a warning text about Nina's phone call, alerting him to be prepared for potential questions.

Chapter 30

The atmosphere in the Winchester household has changed with Cecelia away at summer camp, and Nina seems more cheerful. However, the tension between Millie and Andrew is palpable as they try to avoid each other after their night together at The Plaza hotel. When Millie accidentally breaks a glass, Andrew helps her clean up, and they share a moment of attraction, but are interrupted by Nina. At dinner, Nina reveals that she knows about Millie's past as a convict, which shocks Andrew and makes Millie feel uncomfortable and defensive. Nina's behavior becomes increasingly condescending and manipulative, making Millie realize that she has discovered her secret night out with Andrew. Millie finds a playbill from the show on her nightstand, which she is certain she did not put there, and realizes that Nina must have found out about their tryst and is now using it to exert control over her. Millie feels like she has made a dangerous enemy in Nina, who will stop at nothing to keep her in her place.

Chapter 31

Millie is forced to endure a grueling shopping trip by Nina, who sends her on a mission to find very specific items at the grocery store. As Millie navigates the aisles, she is watched by a suspicious heavyset man who later identifies himself as supermarket security, accusing her of stealing. After a tense investigation, the security guard finds that everything in Millie's cart matches her receipt, and she is allowed to leave. However, Millie suspects that Nina may have orchestrated the incident as revenge for her secret tryst with Andrew, and she fears that this may not be the end of Nina's attempts to sabotage her. The experience leaves Millie shaken and anxious about her future, particularly her parole status and her position in the Winchester household.

Chapter 32

Millie is struggling to sleep due to her lingering feelings for Andrew and the tension between them. She goes downstairs to the kitchen, where she finds Andrew sitting on the back porch, drinking a beer. They share a moment, and Millie tries to explain her past, but Andrew doesn't want to know. They kiss, but Andrew pulls away, knowing they can't be together. Millie returns to her room, but is confronted by Nina, who is standing in the hallway, seemingly aware of Millie's encounter with Andrew. Nina questions Millie about her whereabouts and whether she saw Andrew, and Millie lies to her, trying to cover up their secret. The chapter ends with Nina going to check on Andrew, leaving Millie feeling anxious and worried about the consequences of her actions.

Chapter 33

Millie spends her day off outside the Winchester house, enjoying the summer weather and reflecting on her past in prison. When she returns home, she finds Nina accusing her of stealing expensive clothing, which Andrew defends her against, revealing that Nina had given Millie the clothes earlier. The argument escalates, and Andrew tells Nina he wants to separate, citing that he no longer loves her. Nina, furious and humiliated, threatens to destroy Andrew in court and make him penniless. Andrew stands firm, and Nina eventually leaves the house, vowing to never forget what Millie has done. After Nina's departure, Andrew and Millie share a moment, and Andrew confesses his feelings for her. As they kiss, Millie can't shake off the feeling that Nina's threat is far from empty, and she worries about the consequences of Nina's anger.

Chapter 34

Millie wakes up in the guest bedroom with Andrew after a night together, and they share a romantic moment. Andrew tells Millie that he wants to give their relationship a real try and suggests that she shouldn't be his maid anymore. He offers to let her stay in the house until she figures out what she wants to do next. Millie is hesitant due to her past and the challenges of finding a new job, but Andrew reassures her that he wants to help. As they start their day, Millie receives mysterious calls from a blocked number, which she suspects might be Nina. Andrew confronts Enzo, the landscaper, and fires him, but before Enzo leaves, he grabs Millie's arm and warns her that she is in terrible danger. Millie is unsure what to make of Enzo's warning, but she is forced to go back inside the house with Andrew, leaving her with more questions and a sense of unease.

Chapter 35

Millie is trying to navigate her new life after Andrew has asked her to stop working as a maid, and she's enjoying the freedom to do as she pleases. While grocery shopping, she receives a mysterious call from a blocked number, which unsettles her. She then runs into one of Nina's friends, Patrice, who reveals that Nina has been tracking Millie's location using a phone app. This discovery shocks and angers Millie, making her realize that Nina has been monitoring her movements all along. As she tries to process this information, she sees a car that looks like Nina's leaving the parking lot, and her phone rings again, but it's just a spam caller. Despite the false alarm, Millie can't shake off the feeling that she's in danger, and her anxiety about Nina's actions continues to grow.

Chapter 36

Millie is home alone in the Winchester house, waiting for Andrew to return from work. She has prepared a special dinner, but Andrew is running late and she ends up eating alone. As she watches TV, she can't shake off the feeling that Nina is still watching her, despite having deleted the tracking app from her phone. Millie receives a mysterious call from a blocked number with a distorted voice warning her to stay away from Andrew. She decides to take back control of the house and plans to change the locks and move into the master bedroom. When Andrew returns home, Millie is packing her bags to move downstairs, and they share a romantic moment, putting aside the tensions and dangers that have been lurking in the background.

Chapter 37

Millie wakes up in the guest bedroom after a night with Andrew, feeling uncomfortable on the cot and noticing that Andrew is no longer there. She gets up to use the bathroom, but when she tries to leave the room, she discovers that the door is locked. Despite her initial thought that the door might be stuck, she realizes that it's actually been locked, causing her to feel a sense of panic. This newfound obstacle adds to the tension and uncertainty in Millie's situation, as she tries to navigate her complicated relationship with Andrew and the dangers posed by Nina's wrath.

Chapter 38

Millie's panic grows as she tries to escape the locked room, searching for a way out and feeling trapped. She recalls the warning Enzo gave her on her first day, "danger", and starts to suspect that Nina might be behind the locked door. As she tries to find a solution, Millie hears footsteps outside the room and prepares herself for a confrontation. The door is eventually unlocked by Andrew, who seems unaware of the lock being engaged and attributes it to an old house quirk. Millie is unsure if she can trust Andrew's explanation, and her anxiety about Nina's potential involvement continues to escalate. Meanwhile, Millie's feelings for Andrew are put to the test as she struggles to reconcile her desire for him with the danger and uncertainty that surrounds their relationship.

Chapter 39

The chapter delves into Nina's past, revealing how she met and married Andrew Winchester. Their courtship was quick, and Nina was swept off her feet by Andrew's charming and responsible nature. However, as their relationship progressed, Nina began to notice small flaws in Andrew's behavior, including his unusual relationship with his mother, Evelyn. Despite these concerns, Nina married Andrew and tried to be a perfect wife, but she soon discovered that he had a dark and controlling side. The chapter takes a dark turn when Andrew locks Nina in the attic, refusing to let her out until she has "learned her lesson." Nina's attempts to escape and plead with Andrew to release her are met with his calm and menacing responses, leaving her feeling trapped and terrified. The chapter ends with Nina realizing that she has made a terrible mistake in marrying Andrew and that she must find a way to escape her situation.

Chapter 40

Nina is locked in the attic by her husband Andrew as punishment for not dyeing her hair. She is forced to spend the night in the room with no bathroom and limited water. Andrew demands that she give him 100 strands of her hair as a condition for her release. Nina is desperate to escape and reunite with her daughter Cecelia, and she agrees to Andrew's demand. As she tries to pull out her hair, she realizes the true extent of Andrew's cruelty and control. The chapter reveals a darker side of Andrew's personality, showing him to be manipulative, controlling, and potentially psychotic. Nina's situation becomes increasingly desperate as she tries to find a way to escape and protect herself and her daughter from Andrew's abuse.

Chapter 41

Nina, having been locked in the attic by her husband Andrew, has finally completed the task he demanded of her: plucking out 100 strands of her hair. After a night of waiting, Andrew returns and inspects the hair, only to claim that one of the strands is not intact, forcing Nina to start over. However, the next morning, Andrew returns and accepts the new batch of hair, bringing Nina food and water. Weak and disoriented, Nina accepts his offering and allows him to help her downstairs, where she hears her daughter Cecelia singing. Despite her hatred for Andrew, Nina's physical state forces her to rest, and Andrew tucks her into bed, promising to take care of Cecelia. As Nina drifts off to sleep, she is torn between her desire to escape and her doubt about the reality of her situation, wondering if she imagined the whole ordeal. However, she ultimately reminds herself that it was real, and she vows to hate Andrew for his cruel actions.

Chapter 42

Nina wakes up in her bed, feeling groggy and disoriented after being locked in the attic by her husband Andrew. She discovers that her phone is filled with text messages from Andrew, who claims to be worried about her and their daughter Cecelia. Nina's concern for Cecelia's whereabouts grows, and she tries to get out of bed to investigate. Despite her weakness, she manages to crawl to the master bathroom, where she finds Cecelia unresponsive in the bathtub with the water rapidly filling up. Just as Nina tries to save her, a police officer and paramedic arrive, and Nina is accused of trying to drown her daughter. The police believe that Nina has taken drugs and is out of her mind, and they plan to take her to the hospital. Nina is shocked and confused, insisting that she was trying to save Cecelia, not harm her. The chapter ends with Nina being taken away, unsure of what is happening and why the police think she is capable of such a horrific act.

Chapter 43

The story follows Nina, who has spent the last eight months in a psychiatric hospital after a alleged attempt to drown her daughter, Cecelia, in the bathtub. Nina has no memory of the incident and believes she was a victim of her husband Andrew's abuse, but her therapist attributes her memories to delusions caused by major depression. Nina is now on medication and is preparing to return home to her family, despite feeling uneasy about it. Her husband Andrew has been supportive throughout her stay at the hospital, visiting her regularly and bringing her gifts. As Nina prepares to leave the hospital, she is torn between her desire to reunite with her daughter and her fear of returning to the house where she believes she was abused.

Chapter 44

Nina attends a therapy session with Dr. Hewitt, where they discuss her fears and delusions, particularly regarding the attic in her house. Dr. Hewitt suggests that Nina should visit the attic to confront her fears and realize that her delusions were just a product of her mental health issues. Andy, Nina's husband, also encourages her to visit the attic, believing it will help her heal and move on from her past accusations against him. After the therapy session, Nina returns home, where she spends time with her daughter Cecelia and her mother-in-law Evelyn. Later that evening, Andy brings up the idea of Nina visiting the attic again, and this time she agrees, deciding to face her fears and take a step towards recovery.

Chapter 45

Nina is forced to confront the reality of her situation as she is locked in the attic by her husband Andrew, who has been manipulating and controlling her. As she tries to escape and find a way out, she realizes that the room is exactly as she remembered it, with the same dingy cot, closet, and mini-fridge. Andrew's true nature is revealed as he taunts her, telling her that she has two choices: to have the light on, which is blindingly bright, or to have darkness. He leaves her in the room, and Nina is forced to endure the harsh conditions, saving the three water bottles he left for her for when she can't stand it anymore. As the days pass, Nina becomes desperate, and when Andrew finally returns, he sets ground rules for her release, including not telling anyone what happened in the room and submitting to his discipline. Nina is filled with fury and desperation, but she knows she must comply to protect herself and her daughter. The chapter ends with Andrew's menacing warning that he is always watching her, and Nina is left to contemplate her desperate situation.

Chapter 46

Nina's life with her husband Andrew is revealed to be a prison, where she is subjected to emotional and psychological abuse. She has tried to escape and seek help, but Andrew's control and manipulation have made it impossible for her to leave. Nina's only hope is that when her daughter Cecelia is older, she will be able to escape and leave Andrew behind. In the meantime, Nina fantasizes about killing Andrew and is forced to endure his twisted games and punishments. The arrival of Enzo, the landscaper, brings a glimmer of hope, as Nina confides in him about her situation, despite not speaking the same language. However, she quickly realizes her mistake and tries to brush it off, fearing that Enzo may now be in danger due to his newfound knowledge. As Nina navigates her desperate situation, she is trapped in a never-ending cycle of fear, abuse, and desperation.

Chapter 47

Nina is locked in the attic by her husband Andrew as punishment for spraying too much air freshener in their bedroom. She is forced to pepper-spray herself as a condition for her release. After enduring the painful effects of the pepper spray, Nina sees Enzo, the landscaper, working in the backyard and tries to signal to him for help. Enzo discovers Nina's situation and tries to intervene, but Nina is afraid of Andrew's potential retaliation and warns Enzo to stay out of it. Despite her warnings, Enzo vows to help Nina escape from Andrew's abuse. The next day, Nina tells Enzo the truth about Andrew's abuse, including the time she found her daughter Cecelia unconscious in the bathtub. Enzo is furious and offers to kill Andrew, but Nina refuses, fearing the consequences. Instead, Enzo offers to help Nina escape from Andrew, promising to find a way to get her a new identity and a safe place to go. Nina is torn between her desire for freedom and her fear of Andrew's wrath, but she begins to consider Enzo's offer as a possible way out of her desperate situation.

Chapter 48

Nina's plans to escape her abusive husband Andrew are foiled when he discovers her secret safe deposit box containing a new passport, driver's license, and cash. She flees to Enzo's apartment, and he offers to kill Andrew as a last resort. However, Nina comes up with a different plan, one that she believes will work because she knows Andrew so well. The details of the plan are not revealed, but it seems that Nina is determined to take matters into her own hands and free herself and her daughter Cecelia from Andrew's abuse.

Chapter 49

Nina reveals her plan to replace herself with Millie, a beautiful and desperate young woman, as a way to escape her abusive husband Andrew. Nina deliberately creates a mess in the kitchen and accuses Millie of losing her notes, making Andy feel sorry for Millie and attracted to her. Nina's goal is to make Andy fall in love with Millie, and she uses various tactics to achieve this, including treating Millie poorly and making her hate her. Meanwhile, Andy's desire for a baby is also a factor, and Nina uses this to her advantage by pretending to be pregnant and then revealing that she is barren, making Andy more likely to turn to Millie. As the story unfolds, Nina's plan seems to be working, and Andy becomes increasingly infatuated with Millie. Nina's ultimate goal is to escape her abusive marriage and leave Andrew to deal with Millie, and it appears that she may finally be free.

Chapter 50

Nina reflects on her newfound freedom after being kicked out by her husband Andrew and plans to start a new life with her daughter Cecelia. She meets with Enzo, the landscaper who helped her escape, and they share a romantic moment. However, their intimacy is interrupted when Enzo expresses his concern for Millie, the young woman who has been working for Andrew and is now in a similar situation to what Nina experienced. Enzo insists that they must warn Millie about Andrew's true nature, but Nina is hesitant, revealing a complex and potentially dark side to her character. The chapter ends with Enzo's determination to tell Millie the truth, despite Nina's objections, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation.

Chapter 51

Millie's life is turned upside down as she discovers the truth about Andrew's abusive nature, courtesy of Enzo's warning. Enzo reveals the shocking details of Nina's past and her plan to escape Andrew's clutches by manipulating him into falling for Millie. Millie is stunned, feeling both betrayed and relieved that the truth has finally come to light. As she processes this new information, Millie realizes that she has been a pawn in Nina's game all along. With this newfound understanding, Millie must decide whether to confront Andrew or escape the situation altogether, all while navigating the complex web of relationships and secrets that have defined her time in the Winchester household.

Chapter 52

Millie's world is turned upside down as she grapples with the shocking truth about Andrew's abusive nature, revealed to her by Enzo. She feels a mix of emotions - betrayal, relief, and uncertainty - as she tries to process the fact that she was a pawn in Nina's escape plan. With this newfound understanding, Millie must now decide how to proceed, whether to confront Andrew about his true nature or to escape the situation altogether. As she navigates this complex web of relationships and secrets, Millie's priority is to ensure her own safety and well-being, while also considering the potential consequences of her actions on those around her, including Andrew, Nina, and Cecelia. The situation is fraught with tension and uncertainty, leaving Millie to wonder what the future holds and how she will emerge from this tangled and potentially dangerous situation.

Chapter 53

Millie's decision to confront Andrew about his abusive nature is put on hold as she receives a mysterious and ominous message that suggests someone has been watching her. The message reads: "I know what you did," which sends a chill down Millie's spine and makes her question who could have sent it and what they want from her. As she tries to make sense of the message, Millie's mind is flooded with memories of her past mistakes and the secrets she has kept hidden. Meanwhile, Andrew's behavior becomes increasingly suspicious, and Millie starts to wonder if he is behind the message. With her sense of unease and fear growing, Millie must now navigate this new threat while also trying to uncover the truth about Andrew's past and the secrets that have been hidden in the Winchester household.

Chapter 54

Millie's anxiety and fear escalate as she tries to uncover the truth behind the ominous message "I know what you did." She becomes increasingly paranoid, wondering if Andrew or someone else is behind the message. As she navigates this new threat, Millie's relationships with those around her begin to unravel. She starts to suspect that Andrew's charming facade may be hiding a darker truth, and she becomes determined to expose his abusive nature. Meanwhile, the mysterious message sender remains unknown, adding to the tension and suspense. Millie's priority is to ensure her safety and well-being, but as she digs deeper, she may uncover secrets that put her in even greater danger. The situation is precarious, and Millie must tread carefully to avoid becoming the next victim of the Winchester household's dark secrets.

Chapter 55

Millie's world continues to unravel as she delves deeper into the mysteries of the Winchester household. The ominous message "I know what you did" still lingers, leaving her with a sense of unease and fear. As she navigates the complex web of relationships and secrets, Millie becomes increasingly determined to expose Andrew's abusive nature. However, her priorities shift when she discovers a shocking truth about her own past, one that threatens to upend everything she thought she knew about herself. With her sense of identity and reality hanging in the balance, Millie must confront the darkness that has been lurking beneath the surface of her life. The truth about the Winchester household and its inhabitants begins to unravel, revealing a tangled and sinister plot that puts Millie's life in grave danger. As the stakes grow higher, Millie must decide how to proceed, all while facing the ultimate question: will she be able to escape the clutches of the Winchester household, or will she become its next victim?

Chapter 56

Millie's life hangs in the balance as she navigates the treacherous landscape of the Winchester household. With the ominous message "I know what you did" still echoing in her mind, Millie is determined to uncover the truth about Andrew's abusive nature and the dark secrets that have been hidden beneath the surface. However, her own past threatens to upend everything she thought she knew about herself, leaving her sense of identity and reality hanging in the balance. As the stakes grow higher, Millie must confront the darkness that has been lurking beneath the surface of her life and decide how to proceed. The truth about the Winchester household and its inhabitants begins to unravel, revealing a tangled and sinister plot that puts Millie's life in grave danger. With each step, Millie edges closer to the truth, but the question remains: will she be able to escape the clutches of the Winchester household, or will she become its next victim?

Chapter 57

Millie's world is on the brink of collapse as she finally uncovers the shocking truth about the Winchester household and its inhabitants. The darkness that has been lurking beneath the surface is revealed, and Millie is forced to confront the sinister plot that has been unfolding around her. With her sense of identity and reality hanging in the balance, Millie must make a desperate bid to escape the clutches of the Winchester household and save herself from becoming its next victim. As the truth begins to unravel, Millie is met with a stunning revelation that will change everything she thought she knew about her past, her present, and her future. The fate of Millie and those around her hangs in the balance, and the outcome is far from certain.

Chapter 58

Millie's desperate bid to escape the Winchester household reaches a climax as she finally uncovers the truth about the sinister plot that has been unfolding around her. With her sense of identity and reality hanging in the balance, Millie must use all her strength and resourcefulness to outwit her captors and save herself from becoming the next victim. As the truth begins to unravel, Millie is met with a stunning revelation that will change everything she thought she knew about her past, her present, and her future. The fate of Millie and those around her hangs in the balance, and the outcome is far from certain. In a shocking turn of events, Millie's world is turned upside down, and she is forced to confront the ultimate truth about the Winchester household and its inhabitants.

Chapter 59

In the aftermath of uncovering the truth about the Winchester household, Millie's life is forever changed. The sinister plot that had been unfolding around her is finally exposed, and she must come to terms with the shocking revelations about her past, present, and future. As she navigates the complex web of relationships and secrets, Millie's sense of identity and reality is hanging in the balance. With her fate and that of those around her still uncertain, Millie must find a way to move forward and rebuild her life. The chapter brings a sense of closure to the story, but also leaves room for a new beginning, as Millie emerges from the darkness of the Winchester household and into a brighter, uncertain future.

Chapter 60

The story concludes with Millie finally finding the freedom and closure she has been seeking. After exposing the truth about the Winchester household and its inhabitants, Millie is able to break free from the toxic relationships and secrets that had been holding her back. As she reflects on her journey, Millie comes to terms with the shocking revelations about her past, present, and future, and begins to rebuild her life. With a newfound sense of identity and purpose, Millie is able to move forward, leaving the darkness of the Winchester household behind her. The chapter ends with a sense of hope and uncertainty, as Millie embarks on a new journey, one that is filled with possibilities and promise. The fate of the Winchester household and its inhabitants is also revealed, bringing a sense of justice and closure to the story. Ultimately, Millie's story is one of survival, resilience, and the power of truth and freedom.

Chapter 61

The conclusion of Millie's story is marked by a sense of closure and new beginnings. With the truth about the Winchester household finally exposed, Millie is able to break free from the toxic relationships and secrets that had been holding her back. She reflects on her journey, coming to terms with the shocking revelations about her past, present, and future, and begins to rebuild her life. As she moves forward, Millie is filled with a sense of hope and uncertainty, embarking on a new journey filled with possibilities and promise. The fate of the Winchester household and its inhabitants is also revealed, bringing a sense of justice and closure to the story. Ultimately, Millie's story is one of survival, resilience, and the power of truth and freedom.