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The book is a psychological thriller that follows the story of Millie, a young woman with a troubled past, who becomes embroiled in a complex web of deceit and betrayal surrounding the wealthy and powerful Garrick family. As Millie navigates her complicated relationships and tries to uncover the truth about the family's dark secrets, she finds herself in increasing danger. The story takes a series of unexpected twists and turns, revealing shocking truths about the characters and their motivations. Ultimately, the book builds towards a dramatic and suspenseful conclusion, as Millie fights to clear her name and bring justice to those responsible for the crimes that have been committed. Along the way, she must confront her own demons and make difficult choices that will determine her fate and the fate of those around her. The book is a gripping and intense page-turner that explores themes of trauma, abuse, and the power of the truth to both heal and harm.
The narrator is trapped in a small cabin during a storm, aware that they will be murdered tonight. As the electricity flickers and goes out, they realize someone else is responsible and has already taken a life. Desperate to survive, the narrator attempts to find a weapon in the kitchen, but their efforts are hindered by a wet floor, which they soon discover is stained with blood. As they struggle to regain their footing, they hear footsteps approaching and sense a menacing presence, realizing too late that they have underestimated the danger and are now at the mercy of a killer.
The story shifts to a point in time before the events in the cabin, where the narrator's life is marked by a sense of normalcy and routine. However, beneath the surface, there are hints of tension and unease, suggesting that the narrator's world is not as secure as it seems. As the narrator goes about their daily life, they begin to experience strange and unexplained occurrences that subtly disrupt their sense of safety, foreshadowing the terror that is to come. The narrator's perceptions and emotions are expertly woven together, creating an atmosphere of growing unease and foreboding, which ultimately sets the stage for the horrific events that will unfold.
The narrator's daily life is marked by a sense of unease and financial struggle as they navigate their neighborhood in the South Bronx. They are constantly on high alert, carrying mace and being mindful of their surroundings. After a chance encounter with a familiar-looking man who lives in the apartment below theirs, the narrator can't shake off the feeling that they may have underestimated the danger around them. As they settle into their apartment, they reflect on their recent job loss and the challenges they face in finding new employment due to their troubled past. Just as they start to unwind with a hot shower and a simple dinner, they are interrupted by an unexpected and unwelcome visitor at their door, who demands to be let in.
The narrator is confronted by her boyfriend, Brock, who has arrived at her apartment after she stood him up for dinner plans. She explains that she lost her job and didn't feel like going out, and Brock is understanding and tries to cheer her up. As they talk, it becomes clear that Brock is eager to take their relationship to the next level and suggests that the narrator move in with him, offering her a life of luxury and financial security. However, the narrator is hesitant, revealing that she has secrets about her past that she hasn't shared with Brock, and is unsure if she's ready to open up to him. Despite Brock's persuasive arguments, the narrator declines his offer, citing her need for independence, but it's clear that she's torn and unsure about how to navigate their relationship and her own secrets.
The narrator, Millie, attends her tenth job interview in three weeks, this time with Douglas Garrick, a wealthy man living in a penthouse apartment on the Upper West Side. As she arrives at the building, she notices a black Mazda sedan with a cracked headlight, which sparks a sense of déjà vu, reminding her of a similar car she saw near her apartment in the South Bronx. During the interview, Millie is shown around the opulent penthouse, which is surprisingly immaculate, and learns that Douglas's wife, Wendy, is ill and needs help with household chores. Despite some awkward moments, Millie is offered the job and agrees to start immediately, but can't shake off the feeling that something is off about the Garricks and their luxurious lifestyle.
The narrator attends a lecture where Professor Kindred discusses the bystander effect, citing the infamous case of Kitty Genovese, who was murdered in front of multiple witnesses who failed to intervene. After the lecture, the narrator meets up with her boyfriend, Brock, and they discuss the case, with Brock providing a more nuanced view of the events. As they walk together, Brock brings up the topic of their relationship, mentioning that his parents would like to meet the narrator and expressing his desire to take their relationship to the next level. The narrator is hesitant, feeling unready for the level of commitment Brock is seeking and struggling with the fact that she has not shared her complicated past with him. As they continue their conversation, the narrator becomes increasingly uncomfortable, feeling like she is being pulled in a direction she is not ready for, and begins to sense that someone is watching her, adding to her growing unease.
The narrator begins her first day working for the Garricks, navigating their opulent apartment and trying to get a sense of her new employers. As she starts on the laundry, she discovers that the dirty clothes are already folded, which she finds unusual. While heading to the washer and dryer, she catches a glimpse of Mrs. Garrick's eye through a cracked door, but before she can introduce herself, the door snaps shut. Despite feeling a bit awkward, the narrator decides to respect Douglas's wishes and not disturb Mrs. Garrick, instead focusing on completing her tasks for the day. As she works, she can't help but feel a sense of curiosity and unease about the Garricks and their mysterious household.
The narrator, Millie, starts her first full day of work at the Garricks' penthouse apartment, tackling laundry and dinner duties. She finds a detailed menu plan on the refrigerator, which includes specific instructions for purchasing and preparing ingredients, making her feel a bit overwhelmed. As she cooks dinner, Douglas returns home and announces his arrival, but there is no response from his wife, Wendy. Millie offers to bring Wendy's plate upstairs, but Douglas declines, saying he will take care of it. The conversation between Millie and Douglas is polite but strained, and Millie senses that something is off about the situation. After finishing her tasks, Millie leaves the apartment, feeling uneasy and unsure about her new job.
The narrator discusses her concerns about the Garrick family with her boyfriend, Brock, over dinner at his apartment. She has been working for the family but has yet to see Wendy Garrick, who remains secluded in her bedroom. Brock offers humorous and far-fetched explanations for Wendy's behavior, but the narrator is unconvinced and admits to having a bad feeling about the situation. As they talk, the narrator's mind wanders back to the Garricks, and she can't shake off the sense of unease she feels about her new job and the mysterious family she is working for. Meanwhile, Brock's attention is diverted by the narrator's lack of appreciation for an expensive bottle of wine, highlighting their different backgrounds and tastes.
The narrator, Millie, has been working for the Garricks for a month and still hasn't officially met Wendy Garrick, who remains secluded in her bedroom. Millie's curiosity gets the better of her, and she starts listening in on the guest bedroom door, eventually hearing crying sounds coming from inside. Despite Douglas's instructions not to disturb Wendy, Millie knocks on the door and tries to check in on her, but Wendy is hostile and unresponsive. When Douglas returns home, Millie mentions that she heard Wendy crying, but Douglas seems more concerned with keeping Millie from interfering than with his wife's well-being. He presents Millie with a gift he's bought for Wendy, a diamond bracelet, and heads upstairs to give it to her. Millie is left feeling uncertain and uneasy about the situation, sensing that something is not quite right with the Garricks' relationship, but is unsure whether she should get involved or mind her own business.
The narrator prepares for another day of work at the Garricks' penthouse, receiving a text from Douglas to confirm her arrival. As she plans her day, she reflects on her past relationship with Enzo Accardi, a man she met four years ago who helped her escape a difficult time in her life. They started as friends, working together to help women escape abusive relationships, and eventually became romantically involved. However, their relationship ended when Enzo had to return to Sicily to care for his ailing mother, and he ultimately didn't come back. The narrator is now in a relationship with Brock, but she's hesitant to open up to him about her past and is unsure if she's ready to commit to him. As she heads out to do grocery shopping for the Garricks, she encounters a man named Xavier who lives in the apartment below hers and makes her feel uneasy, knowing her name and seeming to be watching her. The narrator considers moving in with Brock to escape the feeling of being watched and to get away from Xavier, who she thinks might be stalking her.
The narrator arrives at the Garricks' penthouse with groceries, but her task is soon derailed by the sound of muffled shouting and a crash from upstairs. As she prepares to investigate, Douglas appears, flustered and with a torn shirt, and assures her that everything is fine. However, his demeanor and behavior raise suspicions, and the narrator is left feeling uneasy and unsure about what is really going on in the household. Despite her concerns, she is dismissed by Douglas and forced to leave, but not before being tasked with returning a gift that Wendy apparently didn't want. The encounter leaves the narrator with a negative impression of Douglas and a growing sense of unease about her role in the household and the secrets that may be hidden behind closed doors.
The narrator returns to her apartment building in the South Bronx, feeling a sense of unease and paranoia as she walks from the subway station. She quickens her pace, feeling like she's being watched, and is relieved to enter the safety of her building. However, her relief is short-lived as she encounters Xavier, a man from her building who makes her feel uncomfortable and seems to be watching her. Despite her attempts to brush him off, Xavier persists in trying to engage with her, making suggestive comments and invitations. As they climb the stairs together, the narrator becomes increasingly anxious and fearful, eventually feeling threatened when Xavier grabs her arm, making her wonder if she'll be able to escape him.
The narrator is grabbed by Xavier, a man from her building, who makes suggestive comments and invitations, making her feel threatened and fearful. She manages to defend herself by using mace and shoving him down the stairs. As Xavier lies at the bottom of the stairs, groaning and still alive, the narrator impulsively kicks him multiple times, but then stops herself, realizing she can't let her desire for revenge consume her. Having spent ten years in prison, she knows she can't go back, and instead decides to call 911 to report the incident and seek justice through the proper channels.
The narrator, Millie, is dealing with the aftermath of being attacked by her neighbor, Xavier, in the stairwell of her apartment building. The police have arrived, and Xavier is taken away in an ambulance with injuries, including a broken arm and possible broken ribs. Millie is left to give a statement to the police, but the officer, Scavo, seems skeptical of her account and instead appears to believe Xavier's claim that Millie was the aggressor. Scavo mentions that a witness saw Millie kicking Xavier while he was unconscious on the ground, and he brings up Millie's prison record, implying that she has a history of violent behavior. Millie is furious and frustrated by the officer's attitude, and she is relieved when her boyfriend, Brock, arrives. Brock suggests that Millie stay with him for a while, and she agrees, realizing that she may not be able to continue living in her current apartment due to the threat posed by Xavier. As she packs to leave, Millie is filled with anger and a sense of injustice, feeling that she is being blamed for the attack and that her past is being used against her.
The narrator is working at the Garricks' penthouse, folding laundry in the master bedroom, when she discovers a bloodstain on one of Wendy's nightgowns. She is interrupted by a phone call from Officer Scavo, who informs her that Xavier, the man who attacked her, has decided not to press charges, but warns her that she needs to get her anger issues under control. As she hangs up, she realizes that Douglas Garrick is standing in the doorway, having potentially overheard the conversation. He asks her to hang up his jacket and inquires about her marital status, making her feel uneasy with his charming but intense gaze. When he notices the bloodstain on the nightgown, he seems to react sharply, but then nods in approval when she suggests she will look up how to remove the stain. However, the narrator already knows how to remove bloodstains, implying that she has experience with such things, and is unsure how to navigate the situation with Douglas, who seems to be hiding secrets of his own.
The narrator is having dinner with her boyfriend, Brock, at a restaurant, but she's distracted and can't focus on their conversation due to a feeling of being watched. She's been experiencing this sensation frequently since her attack by Xavier, and it's making her feel anxious and unsafe. As they discuss their relationship, the narrator blurts out a suggestion to move in together, which Brock agrees to, but she's not entirely sure if she's ready for that step. Just as Brock expresses his love for her, the narrator's feeling of being watched becomes overwhelming, and she scans the street behind her, expecting to see Xavier. Instead, she spots Douglas Garrick, her employer, which adds to her growing sense of unease and raises questions about his presence and intentions.
The narrator is having dinner with her boyfriend, Brock, when she notices her employer, Douglas Garrick, watching her from across the street. She excuses herself and follows Douglas, who is accompanied by a blonde woman, to a brownstone apartment building. It becomes clear that Douglas is having an affair with this woman, who is arguing with him about his marital status. The narrator is shocked by this discovery and wonders why Douglas was watching her. As she returns to the restaurant, she notices a black Mazda with a cracked headlight, which she has seen before near her apartment and the Garricks' residence. This sighting makes her question whether Douglas, rather than her attacker Xavier, has been following her all along. The narrator's discovery raises more questions about Douglas's intentions and her own safety, leaving her with a sense of unease and uncertainty.
The narrator is preparing to move in with her boyfriend, Brock, but is having second thoughts about the decision. As they arrive at her apartment in the Bronx to collect her belongings, they find a police car with flashing lights outside her building. The narrator is relieved to discover that the police are arresting her attacker, Xavier, for drug possession, and not there to take her away. With Xavier no longer a threat, the narrator decides that she doesn't have to move in with Brock after all, citing her need for independence and her own space. Brock is upset by her change of heart, and the narrator realizes that she needs to be honest with him about her past before it's too late. However, with Xavier temporarily out of the picture, she has bought herself some time to figure out her next move.
The narrator is working at the Garricks' penthouse, where she discovers a bloody handprint on the bathroom sink and a trail of blood droplets leading to the guest bedroom. Despite being instructed not to disturb Wendy Garrick, the narrator's concern for her well-being prompts her to knock on the door and investigate. After initially being met with silence, Wendy responds, claiming she is fine and had bleeding from a cracked tooth. However, the narrator is unconvinced and insists on seeing Wendy to verify her condition. When Wendy finally opens the door, the narrator is shocked by what she sees, leaving her on the verge of screaming.
The narrator is shocked by the severe bruises and injuries on Wendy Garrick's face, which appear to be the result of repeated physical abuse. Wendy attempts to downplay the situation, attributing her injuries to a fall and medication, but the narrator is unconvinced. Despite her concern for Wendy's well-being, the narrator is warned by Wendy to stay out of the situation and not get involved, with Wendy emphasizing the potential danger and consequences of interfering. The narrator is left feeling uncertain and concerned, but also determined to uncover the truth about what is happening in the Garrick household.
The narrator attends a lecture by Dr. Kindred, where he discusses the story of Josh Bell, a famous violinist who posed as a street musician and was largely ignored by passersby. The narrator reflects on how she would have stopped to listen to the music and even put money in his case, despite her own financial struggles. After the lecture, she encounters her former employer, Amber, who had fired her, and they have an awkward exchange. Amber's daughter, Olive, still refers to the narrator as "mama," which causes tension. The narrator then receives a phone call from a number she doesn't recognize, which turns out to be a representative from Jobmatch, a service she used to post an ad for housekeeper jobs. The representative informs her that her ad never went live due to a payment issue, which raises the narrator's suspicions about how she ended up working for the Garricks, as Douglas had contacted her unsolicited.
The narrator is determined to uncover the truth about how Douglas Garrick obtained her phone number, as it was not through the job ad she posted. She calls Douglas, pretending to have a question about her résumé, and asks him how he got her number. Douglas claims that his wife, Wendy, gave it to him, saying that a friend had recommended the narrator as a housekeeper. However, the narrator is skeptical and plans to confront Wendy about the matter. Meanwhile, she is still experiencing a sense of being watched and is on high alert, even mistaking a teenage girl's ringing phone for a sign of danger. The narrator's investigation into the Garricks' household is escalating, and she is becoming more determined to expose the truth, despite the potential risks.
The narrator visits the Garricks' penthouse to deliver dry cleaning and decides to confront Wendy about her situation. Despite initial hesitation, Wendy reveals that she got the narrator's number from Ginger Howell, a woman the narrator helped in the past. Wendy confesses that she was desperate to escape her abusive husband, Douglas, and had hoped the narrator could help her. However, she warns the narrator about Douglas's dangerous nature and his ability to track her down. The narrator is determined to help Wendy, but Wendy is too afraid and tells the narrator to leave. Before the narrator departs, Wendy gives her a diamond bracelet that Douglas had given her, with an inscription that reads "You are mine forever," symbolizing her husband's possessive and controlling behavior. Despite Wendy's reluctance, the narrator sees a glimmer of hope in her eyes and is more determined than ever to help her escape her abusive situation.
The narrator is on her way to work at the Garricks' penthouse apartment when she receives a call from her boyfriend, Brock, who invites her to dinner and hints that they need to have a serious talk about their relationship. The narrator agrees to meet him the next day, knowing that she needs to confess her past to him. As she arrives at the penthouse, she is surprised to see Wendy Garrick, who has been secluded in her bedroom, standing in front of the elevator and asking to talk to her. This unexpected encounter sets the narrator on edge, and she is unsure what to expect from the conversation with Wendy, who has been a mystery throughout her employment at the Garricks.
Wendy, the narrator's employer's wife, reveals that she has been planning her escape from her abusive husband, Douglas. She has tracked down an old college friend, Fiona, who has a farm in upstate New York where Wendy can stay hidden. However, Wendy needs the narrator's help to get to Fiona's farm, as she requires a ride to Albany where Fiona can pick her up. The narrator agrees to help Wendy, despite the risks, and offers to rent a car and drive her to Albany. Wendy warns the narrator that Douglas is a dangerous man who will stop at nothing to find her and bring her back, putting the narrator in danger as well. The narrator acknowledges the risks but is determined to help Wendy escape her abusive situation.
The narrator rents a car to help her employer's wife, Wendy, escape her abusive husband, Douglas. Despite initial reservations and a sense of being watched, the narrator agrees to rent a red Hyundai after the rental company fails to provide the gray Ford Focus she reserved. The narrator's concern about being anonymous and not drawing attention to themselves is rooted in her past experiences and lessons learned from Enzo. As she finalizes the rental, the narrator can't shake off the feeling that someone is watching her, and she wonders if it might be Douglas Garrick, who she suspects may be aware of their escape plan. With the car rental secured, the narrator is one step closer to helping Wendy escape her abusive situation, but the sense of unease and danger lingers.
The narrator and Wendy set out on a five-hour drive to Albany, where Wendy plans to escape her abusive husband, Douglas, and meet up with a friend who can provide her with a safe place to stay. Along the way, the narrator notices a black Mazda with a cracked headlight following them, which makes her uneasy as it's the same car she's seen multiple times before. She tries to lose the car on the highway, but it disappears, leaving her feeling relieved but also confused. As they drive, Wendy expresses her excitement and nervousness about leaving her husband, and the narrator reflects on her own past experiences and motivations for helping women in similar situations. Despite the tension and uncertainty, the narrator is determined to help Wendy escape and start a new life.
The narrator and Wendy stop at a McDonald's on their way to Albany, where Wendy plans to escape her abusive husband. The narrator receives a call from her boyfriend, Brock, who is upset that she forgot about their dinner plans. The narrator tries to come up with an excuse, but Brock is furious and demands to know how she feels about him and their relationship. The narrator tells Brock that she loves him, but feels guilty for not being honest about her past and her current situation with Wendy. Despite her reservations, the narrator agrees to meet Brock for dinner the next day and spend the night at his place. The conversation leaves the narrator feeling uncertain and anxious about her relationship with Brock and her ability to keep her secrets hidden.
The narrator and Wendy arrive at a motel in Albany after a five-hour drive, where Wendy plans to escape her abusive husband, Douglas. Despite initial reservations and panic, Wendy agrees to stay at the motel, and the narrator reserves a room for her, using her own driver's license to avoid leaving a trail. The narrator hands Wendy the key and helps her with her bags, and they share a tearful goodbye. Wendy thanks the narrator for saving her life and warns her to be careful, as Douglas will stop at nothing to find her. The narrator reassures Wendy that she can handle Douglas and watches as Wendy disappears into the motel room. With their mission accomplished, the narrator gets back in the car and begins the drive back home, aware that she may have put herself in danger by helping Wendy escape.
The narrator returns to the city after helping Wendy escape, and after dropping off the rental car, she finds herself alone on a deserted street at midnight. As she weighs her options for getting back to the South Bronx, a black Mazda sedan with a cracked headlight appears, and she realizes it's the same car that has been following her for months. The car pulls over, and the driver, a man, shuts off the engine but leaves the headlights on, illuminating the narrator. The door to the car then swings open, leaving the narrator in a vulnerable and ominous situation.
The narrator is confronted by a mysterious figure in a black Mazda sedan with a cracked headlight, but to her surprise, it's her former boyfriend Enzo, who has been watching her from the shadows for three months. Enzo claims he was acting as her bodyguard, citing concerns for her safety, particularly in her rough neighborhood. The narrator is torn between feeling angry and betrayed by Enzo's actions and being touched by his devotion. As they drive together, Enzo reveals that he was the one who ensured Xavier, the man who attacked her, was punished by planting drugs on him, leading to his arrest. The narrator's feelings about Enzo and her current boyfriend Brock are now complicated, and she begins to question her relationships and loyalties. Enzo's return and revelations force her to reevaluate her past and present, leaving her uncertain about what the future holds.
The narrator tells Enzo everything about Douglas's abuse and Wendy's escape, and Enzo expresses his concerns about Douglas being a powerful and dangerous man. Despite the narrator's confidence in her ability to handle the situation, Enzo warns her to be careful, suggesting that Douglas may still pose a threat to her. The narrator and Enzo part ways, with Enzo promising to stop following her and the narrator warning him not to interfere in her life. However, as she returns to her apartment, she begins to feel uneasy and wonders if she has underestimated Douglas's abilities. She considers calling Enzo for help but decides to enter her apartment alone, finding it empty and quiet. Despite the initial relief, she can't shake off the feeling that Douglas may still be a threat, and she locks the deadbolt, preparing for any potential danger that may come her way.
The narrator is having dinner with her boyfriend, Brock, at his apartment, where he mentions a part-time receptionist position at his law firm that she might be interested in. However, she is hesitant due to the potential background check that would reveal her past. Brock also invites her to meet his parents, which adds to her anxiety about being honest with him. Just as she is about to confess her secrets, she receives a call from Wendy, who reveals that she has been brought back by her abusive husband, Douglas. The narrator feels compelled to help Wendy and promises to come to her aid, leaving Brock's apartment abruptly. She reassures Brock that they will talk soon and agrees to meet his parents, but her priority is now helping Wendy escape her dangerous situation again.
The narrator rushes to the Garricks' penthouse after receiving a distressing call from Wendy, who had escaped her abusive husband Douglas with the narrator's help earlier. Upon arrival, the narrator finds the penthouse in darkness and discovers a body on the sofa, which she initially thinks is Wendy's dead body. However, Wendy sits up, revealing that she is alive but badly bruised, with a fresh bruise on her cheek and broken ribs. Wendy explains that Douglas found her at her friend Fiona's farm in Potsdam, despite her efforts to escape and hide. The narrator is determined to help Wendy and promises to make things right, but Wendy has lost hope and feels trapped in her abusive situation. The narrator realizes that she may have inadvertently put Wendy in greater danger by telling Enzo about their escape plan, and she is now more determined than ever to help Wendy escape her abusive husband once and for all.
The narrator is still working for the Garrick family and is trying to help Wendy escape her abusive husband, Douglas. Wendy discovers a gun hidden in a hollowed-out dictionary in Douglas's bookcase and considers using it to kill him. The narrator talks her out of it, knowing that it's not a solution and could lead to worse consequences. Meanwhile, the narrator is trying to avoid her boyfriend, Brock, because she knows she needs to tell him about her past, but is dreading it. As the narrator prepares dinner for the Garricks, she realizes that Douglas is controlling Wendy's food intake, systematically starving her to keep her weak and submissive. This newfound understanding strengthens the narrator's determination to help Wendy escape her abusive situation.
The narrator is struggling with her feelings about her boyfriend Brock and her past relationship with Enzo, who has recently reappeared in her life. She is also deeply concerned about her employer's wife, Wendy, who is being abused by her husband Douglas. After discovering a gun hidden in a dictionary, the narrator realizes that Wendy is desperate and considering drastic measures. The narrator decides to call Enzo for help, but not immediately, as she doesn't want to give him the wrong idea. Meanwhile, she receives a text from Brock declaring his love, which she finds suffocating. Later, she receives a call from Douglas, who informs her that her services are no longer needed, citing his wife's improved health and desire for privacy. The narrator senses that Douglas is trying to intimidate her and prevent her from helping Wendy. The conversation leaves her with an uneasy feeling, which worsens when she realizes that Douglas may have been watching her, as he knew she was wearing a Mets T-shirt to sleep in. Frightened, the narrator invites Brock to come over, seeking comfort and protection.
The narrator is finishing up her last day of work at the Garricks' penthouse, knowing she won't have to deal with Douglas's creepy behavior anymore. However, as she's about to leave, she hears a disturbing argument between Douglas and Wendy, with Douglas becoming increasingly aggressive and violent. The narrator tries to intervene, but the situation escalates, and she hears a crash, Wendy's scream, and a gurgling sound that suggests Douglas is choking her. The narrator realizes she must act quickly to stop the violence and remembers the gun that Wendy had hidden in the bookcase, considering using it to protect Wendy from her abusive husband.
The narrator recalls the location of the gun that Wendy had hidden in the bookcase and decides to use it to scare Douglas, who is violently attacking Wendy in the guest bedroom. With the gun in hand, the narrator enters the room and finds Douglas choking Wendy, who is unresponsive and turning blue. The narrator threatens to shoot Douglas if he doesn't let Wendy go, but he refuses to release her. Despite the narrator's hesitation to use the gun, she feels forced to pull the trigger to save Wendy's life, as Douglas continues to squeeze Wendy's throat and shows no signs of stopping.
The narrator shoots and kills Douglas Garrick while trying to save his wife Wendy from his violent attack. Despite her initial intention to only wound him, the narrator accidentally kills Douglas, and Wendy suggests that she leave the scene and let her take responsibility for the crime. Wendy plans to tell the police that she thought Douglas was an intruder and shot him by accident, and she advises the narrator to delete their text messages to avoid suspicion. The narrator reluctantly agrees to let Wendy take the blame and leaves the penthouse, knowing she will never return. As she departs, she sees Wendy standing over Douglas's dead body with a smile on her face, suggesting that Wendy may have been waiting for an opportunity to be free from her abusive husband.
The narrator is struggling to come to terms with killing Douglas Garrick, and the guilt and anxiety are overwhelming her. She takes the subway back home, unable to shake off the feeling of unease, and eventually receives a call from her boyfriend Brock, who is concerned about her whereabouts and well-being. The narrator makes up a story about having a stomach bug to avoid meeting him, feeling guilty for pushing him away but knowing she can't involve him in her secrets. With no one to turn to, the narrator decides to go home and try to process her emotions, hoping that the situation will eventually blow over and she can move on from the trauma of killing a man.
The narrator wakes up feeling unwell and is visited by Detective Ramirez, who informs her that her former boss, Douglas Garrick, was murdered the night before. The detective asks her to come to the police station for questioning, which makes her feel uneasy and concerned. She requests to call her lawyer, who happens to be her boyfriend Brock, and asks for his presence during the questioning. As she prepares to go to the police station, she reflects on the events of the previous night and the fact that she was involved in Douglas's death. She is worried about the consequences and the potential repercussions on her relationship with Brock, who is unaware of her past and her involvement in the murder. The narrator's situation becomes increasingly complicated as she navigates the police investigation and her personal relationships.
The narrator arrives at the police station, accompanied by Detective Ramirez, and requests to speak with her lawyer, Brock, before being questioned. Brock informs her that she is a serious suspect in the murder of Douglas Garrick and that the police have a warrant to search her apartment. The narrator realizes she must reveal her past to Brock, including her prison record for murder, which she claims was self-defense. Brock is shocked and struggles to come to terms with this new information. The narrator is unsure why the police think she killed Douglas, as Wendy had planned to take responsibility for the crime. Brock tries to reassure her that they will sort out the situation, but the narrator is filled with anxiety and uncertainty about the outcome.
The narrator, Millie, is at the police station being questioned by Detective Ramirez about the murder of her employer, Douglas Garrick. Ramirez presents her with evidence, including text messages and a burner phone, that suggest she had a sexual relationship with Douglas, which she denies. He also shows her a photo of a diamond bracelet that was found in her jewelry box, which she claims was a gift from Wendy, Douglas's wife. However, Ramirez reveals that the bracelet was worth $10,000 and had an inscription that could be interpreted as being from Douglas to Millie. Additionally, he mentions a dress that Millie had been asked to return, which she claims she forgot to do, but Ramirez suggests was a gift from Douglas. Millie's alibi for the night of the murder is also called into question, as she had rented a motel room in Albany, which she claims was just a night away, but Ramirez implies was a tryst with Douglas. The situation becomes more complicated when Ramirez reveals that Wendy told him about Millie's alleged affair with Douglas, and that Millie's fingerprints are on the gun that killed him. Millie is shocked and denies all the allegations, but the evidence against her is mounting, and she is unsure of how to clear her name.
The narrator's interrogation by Detective Ramirez continues to unravel as she tries to explain her involvement with Douglas Garrick and his wife Wendy. Despite her attempts to tell the truth, Ramirez remains skeptical, and the evidence against her mounts. When left alone with her boyfriend and lawyer, Brock, he confronts her about her past and the accusations made against her. Brock's faith in her is shattered, and he ultimately decides he cannot represent her or continue their relationship. The narrator is left alone, facing the possibility of imprisonment and the loss of the person she loves. As Brock abandons her, the narrator breaks down in tears, realizing that her secrets and lies have led to the end of their relationship and potentially her freedom.
The narrator is released from the police station without being arrested, but is warned not to leave town. She tries to call Wendy, but it goes straight to voicemail. Upon returning to her apartment, she finds it has been searched by the police and her landlady is evicting her due to the trouble she's caused. As she watches the news, she sees a report on Douglas Garrick's murder and is shocked to see a video of Wendy speaking about her husband in a positive light, despite his abusive behavior. However, the narrator's attention is caught by a photograph of Douglas Garrick, and she realizes that the man in the photo is not the same person she interacted with in the penthouse, leading her to question who she actually killed the night before.
The narrator is reeling from the discovery that the man she killed may not have been Douglas Garrick, and she begins to question everything she thought she knew about the events that unfolded. She becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth and starts to investigate further, scouring the internet and news reports for any information that might shed light on the situation. As she delves deeper, she realizes that nothing adds up, and the more she learns, the more she realizes that she has been played. The narrator's world is turned upside down as she grapples with the possibility that she has been a pawn in a much larger game, and she becomes determined to get to the bottom of the mystery, no matter the cost. With her life already in shambles, the narrator sets out on a perilous path to uncover the truth, driven by a mix of guilt, anger, and a desire for justice.
The narrator's investigation into the events surrounding Douglas Garrick's murder continues, and she becomes increasingly convinced that she has been deceived. She discovers that the man she killed may have been an imposter, and that the real Douglas Garrick may still be alive. As she digs deeper, she uncovers a complex web of lies and deceit that leads her to question everything she thought she knew about the Garricks and their household. The narrator's determination to uncover the truth drives her to take risks, and she begins to follow a trail of clues that may ultimately lead her to the truth about Douglas Garrick's identity and the circumstances surrounding his murder. Meanwhile, the narrator's personal life remains in turmoil, and she is forced to confront the consequences of her actions, including the loss of her relationship with Brock and the possibility of imprisonment. As the narrator navigates this treacherous landscape, she must use all her resources and cunning to stay one step ahead of those who may be trying to silence her.
The scene flashes back to Wendy's past, where she is engaged to Douglas and is being presented with a prenuptial agreement by his lawyer, Joe Bendeck. Despite her initial reservations and emotional appeals to Douglas, Wendy ultimately agrees to sign the prenup, which promises her $10 million in the event of a divorce. The agreement highlights the significant wealth disparity between Wendy and Douglas, and Wendy's decision to sign it suggests that she is willing to compromise on her principles in order to secure a comfortable future with Douglas. The chapter provides insight into the power dynamics at play in their relationship and sets the stage for the events that will unfold in their marriage.
The narrator's investigation into the truth about Douglas Garrick's identity and the circumstances surrounding his murder continues to unfold. As she digs deeper, she uncovers more evidence that suggests the man she killed may have been an imposter, and that the real Douglas Garrick may still be alive. The narrator's determination to uncover the truth drives her to take risks, and she begins to follow a trail of clues that may ultimately lead her to the truth. Meanwhile, the narrator's personal life remains in turmoil, and she is forced to confront the consequences of her actions. The chapter raises more questions about the Garricks' household and the events that led to the murder, and the narrator's quest for justice and truth becomes increasingly complicated.
The chapter is told from Wendy's perspective, as she has lunch with her friend Audrey at an expensive restaurant. Audrey shares gossip about a woman named Ginger Howell, who has just finalized her divorce from her abusive husband Carter. Audrey reveals that Ginger had help from a woman named Millie, who has a reputation for assisting women with problematic husbands, even to the point of taking drastic measures to protect them. Wendy is intrigued by this information and begins to think about her own situation with her husband Douglas, who is controlling and emotionally abusive. As they finish their lunch, Audrey notices that Wendy hasn't eaten and teases her about not being pregnant yet, which is a sensitive topic for Wendy. The conversation leaves Wendy contemplating her options and the possibility of seeking help from Millie.
The narrator's world is turned upside down as she discovers a shocking truth about her past and her connection to the Garrick family. She learns that she has been playing into the hands of a master manipulator, and that her actions have been orchestrated to serve a larger purpose. As the truth begins to unravel, the narrator is forced to confront the consequences of her decisions and the secrets she has kept hidden. With her life in shambles and her sense of identity shattered, the narrator must navigate a complex web of deceit and betrayal to uncover the truth and find a way to reclaim her life. The chapter ends with a cliffhanger, leaving the narrator's fate and the outcome of her quest for truth hanging in the balance.
The narrator, Wendy, is on a mission to redecorate her penthouse with new furniture, as she dislikes the pieces her husband Douglas has chosen. On her way out, she runs into Marybeth, a receptionist at Douglas's company, in the lobby of her building. Marybeth is friendly and tries to engage Wendy in conversation, but Wendy is cold and distant, making it clear that she prefers to be addressed as "Mrs. Garrick" rather than by her first name. Wendy's encounter with Marybeth highlights her newfound sense of status and superiority as the wife of a wealthy man, and she is determined to maintain a sense of formality and distance from those she considers to be beneath her.
Wendy visits a furniture store, Russell Simonds, where she meets the owner, Russell, who is unexpectedly charming and handsome. She buys several pieces of vintage furniture, including a stunning oak dresser, and as she makes her purchase, she finds herself drawn to Russell. As they interact, Wendy learns that Russell is the husband of Marybeth, who works for her husband Douglas. Despite the connection to her husband's employee, Wendy finds herself attracted to Russell and takes his business card with his phone number on it, hinting at a potential affair. As she leaves the store, Wendy is clearly interested in Russell and seems willing to pursue a relationship with him, suggesting that she may be looking to escape her unhappy marriage to Douglas.
The narrator's life continues to unravel as she navigates the complex web of deceit and betrayal surrounding the Garrick family. With her sense of identity shattered and her life in shambles, she must confront the consequences of her decisions and the secrets she has kept hidden. As she delves deeper into the truth, she discovers that Wendy's past is more complicated than she initially thought, and that her connection to the Garrick family runs deeper than she ever could have imagined. The narrator's quest for truth and justice becomes increasingly complicated, and she must use all her resources and cunning to stay one step ahead of those who may be trying to silence her. Meanwhile, Wendy's story continues to unfold, revealing a tangled web of relationships and motivations that ultimately led to the events that transpired. The narrator's fate and the outcome of her quest for truth hang in the balance, as she struggles to come to terms with the shocking truth about her past and her connection to the Garrick family.
The narrator, Wendy, confronts her husband Douglas about canceling her credit cards, and he reveals that he knows about her infidelity with Russell, Marybeth's husband. Douglas tells Wendy that he wants to go to marriage counseling, but Wendy confesses that she doesn't want to be with him anymore and doesn't want children, which she had been keeping secret from him. Douglas is shocked and hurt by the revelation, and the conversation escalates into a fight. Wendy discovers that the prenuptial agreement she signed includes a clause that states she will get nothing if Douglas can prove her infidelity, which he claims to have evidence of through hidden cameras in their apartment. The chapter ends with Douglas cutting off Wendy's access to their bank accounts and threatening to put their penthouse on the market, leaving Wendy feeling trapped and angry.
The narrator's world continues to crumble as she struggles to come to terms with the shocking truth about her past and her connection to the Garrick family. With her sense of identity shattered and her life in shambles, she must navigate a complex web of deceit and betrayal to uncover the truth and find a way to reclaim her life. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she discovers that Wendy's past is more complicated than she initially thought, and that her connection to the Garrick family runs deeper than she ever could have imagined. The narrator's quest for truth and justice becomes increasingly complicated, and she must use all her resources and cunning to stay one step ahead of those who may be trying to silence her. Meanwhile, the consequences of her actions and the secrets she has kept hidden begin to catch up with her, threatening to destroy everything she holds dear.
The narrator's life is in complete disarray as she tries to make sense of the shocking truth about her past and her connection to the Garrick family. With her sense of identity shattered and her life in shambles, she must navigate a complex web of deceit and betrayal to uncover the truth and find a way to reclaim her life. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she discovers more secrets and lies that threaten to destroy everything she holds dear. Meanwhile, Wendy's story continues to unfold, revealing a tangled web of relationships and motivations that ultimately led to the events that transpired. The narrator's fate and the outcome of her quest for truth hang in the balance, as she struggles to come to terms with the consequences of her actions and the secrets she has kept hidden. In a shocking turn of events, the narrator receives a mysterious message that hints at a deeper conspiracy, leaving her wondering if she will ever be able to uncover the truth and find justice.
The narrator's life is in complete chaos as she tries to unravel the complex web of deceit and betrayal surrounding the Garrick family. She receives a mysterious message that hints at a deeper conspiracy, leaving her questioning everything she thought she knew. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she discovers more secrets and lies that threaten to destroy everything she holds dear. The narrator's quest for truth and justice becomes increasingly complicated, and she must use all her resources and cunning to stay one step ahead of those who may be trying to silence her. Meanwhile, the consequences of her actions and the secrets she has kept hidden begin to catch up with her, threatening to destroy her completely. In a shocking turn of events, the narrator's world is turned upside down once again, leaving her fate and the outcome of her quest for truth hanging in the balance.
The narrator's world is turned upside down as she receives a mysterious message that hints at a deeper conspiracy, leaving her questioning everything she thought she knew. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she discovers more secrets and lies that threaten to destroy everything she holds dear. The narrator's quest for truth and justice becomes increasingly complicated, and she must use all her resources and cunning to stay one step ahead of those who may be trying to silence her. In a shocking turn of events, the narrator uncovers a stunning revelation about her own past and her connection to the Garrick family, forcing her to re-examine everything she thought she knew about herself and her place in the world. The consequences of her actions and the secrets she has kept hidden begin to catch up with her, threatening to destroy her completely, and the narrator is left to pick up the pieces and try to make sense of the shattered remains of her life.
The narrator, Millie, is struggling to come to terms with the events that have unfolded, including the murder of a man she thought was Douglas Garrick, but now realizes may have been an imposter. She confides in her former boyfriend, Enzo, who is trying to help her uncover the truth. Millie reveals that she saw the man who called himself Douglas Garrick with a blonde woman at an apartment building, which could be a lead in finding out his true identity. Enzo is determined to help Millie get to the bottom of the mystery and clear her name. As they discuss their next steps, Millie begins to realize that she may have been tricked by Wendy, who has been manipulating her all along. With Enzo's help, Millie is determined to find out the truth and bring those responsible to justice.
The narrator, Millie, is cleaning up her apartment with the help of her former boyfriend, Enzo, after a police search. As they clean, Millie realizes that the police took the clothes she was wearing the night before, which makes her anxious about potential evidence. Enzo tries to distract her and eventually brings up her current situation with her boyfriend, Brock, who has abandoned her after learning about her past. Enzo criticizes Brock for not understanding Millie and implies that he is a better match for her. Millie reflects on her relationship with Brock and realizes that she never truly connected with him, partly because she kept secrets from him. As she and Enzo grow closer, he kisses her, and Millie feels a strong connection that she never experienced with Brock. The chapter ends with Millie and Enzo rekindling their romance, leaving Millie's troubles with Brock and the police investigation in the background.
The narrator, Millie, and her former boyfriend, Enzo, are staking out a brownstone building, trying to catch a glimpse of the mystery man Millie thinks she may have killed, or the blonde woman she saw with him. They have been watching the building since 6 am, and Enzo has gone to get them coffee and bagels from a nearby Dunkin' Donuts. When the blonde woman exits the building, Millie recognizes her and they prepare to follow her. However, the woman goes into the same Dunkin' Donuts, and Enzo decides to go in and try to talk to her, claiming he can be charming and get her to reveal information. Millie is skeptical but hands over the surveillance to Enzo, who enters the coffee shop to approach the woman.
The narrator, Millie, is waiting for her former boyfriend, Enzo, to gather information from a blonde woman who may be connected to the man Millie thinks she killed, Douglas Garrick. After Enzo spends a long time talking to the woman in a Dunkin' Donuts, he finally emerges and reveals that the woman is the assistant to Douglas Garrick and the wife of the man Millie is looking for. Enzo shows Millie a LinkedIn profile of a man named Russell Simonds, who matches the description of the man Millie shot. However, Enzo reveals that Russell Simonds is actually alive and has gone on a business trip. The woman's story raises more questions, and Enzo decides to investigate further, using his connections to gather more information about Russell Simonds. Millie is relieved to learn that she did not actually kill anyone, but the police still think she is guilty, and she must now navigate this new development in her quest for truth and justice.
The narrator, Millie, and her former boyfriend, Enzo, are at his apartment, trying to figure out their next move to clear Millie's name in the murder investigation. Enzo's contact has found a potential lead on Russell Simonds, the man Millie thinks she may have killed, including a second residence at a lake house a few hours north of the city. Millie wants to go to the lake house to confront Russell and get the truth out of him, but Enzo is hesitant, thinking it could make things worse. As they discuss their options, Millie's phone rings, and she sees that it's her current boyfriend, Brock, calling.
The narrator, Millie, receives a call from her ex-boyfriend Brock, who informs her that the police have found gunshot residue on her clothing and are likely to obtain an arrest warrant for her. Millie is devastated and feels she has no way out. Her former boyfriend Enzo tries to reassure her and promises to do everything he can to help her. Millie wants to go to a cabin on the lake to confront the man she thinks is responsible for framing her, but Enzo tries to stop her. He destroys the address of the cabin and begs her not to do anything stupid. Millie promises Enzo she won't go to the cabin, but secretly plans to go anyway, having memorized the address. She says goodbye to Enzo and heads back to her apartment, expecting to be arrested. Before she leaves, she confesses her love to Enzo, and he reciprocates. Unbeknownst to Enzo, Millie has taken his car keys and plans to use them to go to the cabin.
The narrator, Millie, drives to the cabin on the lake, determined to confront the man she thinks is responsible for framing her. As she arrives at the cabin, she notices that it's secluded and feels a sense of unease. She enters the cabin, calling out to see if anyone is there, but there is no response. Millie begins to search the cabin, looking for any clues or signs of the man's identity. As she searches, she starts to feel a sense of dread and realizes that she may have made a mistake by coming to the cabin alone. Suddenly, she hears a noise behind her and turns to see a figure emerging from the shadows. The figure is revealed to be Wendy, the wife of Douglas Garrick, who has been manipulating Millie throughout the story. Wendy's true intentions are finally revealed, and Millie is faced with a shocking truth that will change everything.
The chapter reveals the aftermath of the events that transpired, with the narrator, Wendy, and Russell dealing with the consequences of their actions. Wendy is shown to be calm and collected, while Russell is overcome with emotion and guilt over the killing of Douglas. As they try to come to terms with what they have done, Wendy attempts to comfort Russell and distract him from his feelings by offering him wine and physical intimacy. Meanwhile, the narrator's true nature is exposed, showing a lack of remorse for Douglas's death and a willingness to manipulate those around her to get what she wants. The chapter ends with Wendy and Russell trying to drown their sorrows in wine, as they attempt to move forward and leave the past behind.
Wendy is enjoying a relaxing evening with Russell after the events that transpired, feeling triumphant about Douglas's death and Millie taking the fall for it. However, her victory is short-lived as she receives a call from Joe Bendeck, the executor of Douglas's estate, who informs her that Douglas changed his will, leaving everything to charity instead of her. Wendy is furious and vows to fight this, but her situation becomes even more complicated when she receives a call from the New York Police Department, hinting that her troubles are far from over.
Wendy receives a call from Detective Rodriguez, who informs her that they have not been able to locate Millie, the woman accused of murdering her husband. However, Rodriguez reveals that a security camera at the back door of the building shows that Wendy's husband hadn't been in the apartment in months, contradicting Wendy's earlier claims of an affair between her husband and Millie. The detective also mentions that the footage shows Wendy's husband arriving at the building after Millie had left, which could potentially clear Millie's name. Wendy realizes she is in trouble and tries to come up with a plan to spin the situation, possibly by claiming self-defense. She then calls out to Russell, her lover, to discuss the situation, but finds him dead in the bathtub with his throat slit.
The chapter begins with Wendy discovering Russell's dead body in the bathtub, his throat slit. She realizes that Millie, the woman she framed for her husband's murder, must be the one who killed Russell. Wendy tries to call out to Millie, but she doesn't respond. The lights in the cabin go out, and Wendy is left in darkness, realizing that Millie must have cut the power. Wendy tries to reason with Millie, explaining that her husband was abusive and that she needed to escape the marriage. However, Millie remains silent, and Wendy can feel her seething rage. Wendy decides to make a run for the kitchen, hoping to find a weapon to defend herself. She slips on Russell's blood and falls, but manages to get back to her feet and feels her way to the kitchen counter, searching for a knife or any other object she can use to defend herself. As she hears Millie's footsteps getting closer, Wendy realizes that she is in grave danger and that Millie intends to kill her.
Wendy is trapped in a dark cabin with a woman she thought was Millie, who is holding a knife and approaching her. Wendy tries to negotiate with the woman, offering her money and promising to tell the police that she made a mistake about Millie's involvement in her husband's murder. However, the woman is unmoved by Wendy's pleas and continues to advance on her. Just as all hope seems lost, a bolt of lightning illuminates the room, revealing that the woman is not Millie, but someone else entirely.
The narrator, Wendy, finds herself trapped in a cabin with Marybeth, the wife of Russell, who has just murdered her husband. Marybeth reveals that she knows about Wendy's affair with Russell and her role in the murder of her husband, Douglas. Marybeth forces Wendy to write a confession, detailing her affair with Russell and her involvement in Douglas's murder. The confession ends with Wendy stating that she can no longer live with the guilt and has decided to take her own life. Marybeth plans to use this confession to make it look like Wendy committed suicide. However, instead of stabbing Wendy, Marybeth reveals that she has already poisoned her with digoxin, a medication that Douglas used to take for his heart condition. As the poison takes effect, Wendy experiences severe symptoms, including nausea, dizziness, and abdominal cramps. Marybeth is determined to make Wendy's death slow and painful, seeking revenge for her husband's murder and her own betrayal.
The narrator, who is revealed to be Marybeth, reflects on the events that led her to seek revenge against Wendy and Russell. She thinks about how her husband Russell had been having an affair with Wendy, and how Wendy had manipulated and used him to further her own interests. Marybeth's anger and sense of betrayal drive her to take matters into her own hands, and she orchestrates a complex plan to frame Millie for Douglas's murder and ultimately kill Wendy. As Wendy lies dying from the poison, Marybeth feels a sense of satisfaction and closure, knowing that she has avenged her husband's death and punished those responsible for his murder. The chapter ends with Marybeth waiting for the poison to take effect, watching as Wendy's life slips away, and contemplating the next steps in her plan to cover her tracks and avoid detection.
The narrator, Millie, is in an interrogation room with Detective Rodriguez, who informs her that she is no longer a suspect in the murder of Douglas Garrick. It is revealed that Wendy Garrick, the victim's wife, had set Millie up and later confessed to the crime in a suicide note before taking her own life. The detective apologizes for the mistake and expresses appreciation for Millie's efforts to help women in trouble, offering his assistance in the future. Millie is relieved and grateful, and as she leaves the police station, she is met by her former boyfriend Enzo, who has been waiting for her. The chapter ends with Millie and Enzo reunited, and Millie feeling a sense of closure and new beginnings.