ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY SIX

ALICE'S POV

I arrived home with a mix of exhaustion and satisfaction after a long day of scheming. The driver pulled up to the grand entrance of my estate, and as he opened the door for me, I stepped out gracefully, letting the cool evening air wash over me. My heels clicked against the cobblestone path as I walked towards the door, feeling the weight of the day's accomplishments on my shoulders. Mama needed her rest, after all.

But before I could reach the sanctuary of my home, my phone buzzed in my purse. I pulled it out and saw Todd's name flashing on the screen. I answered it, my voice smooth and controlled. "Todd," I greeted him, already knowing the purpose of his call.

"It's done," he reported, his voice steady, professional. Just as I’d trained him.

"Good. And precautions?" I asked, though I already knew the answer. Todd was nothing if not thorough.

"Taken care of. No loose ends."

"Excellent," I purred, feeling a sense of satisfaction ripple through me. "The money will be wired