Larissa Judson and Haskell Palmer novel Chapter 347

The next morning, sunlight streamed through the gaps in the curtains. Larissa stretched, sat up, and after a quick wash, went downstairs for breakfast. As she reached the landing, she glanced instinctively toward the front gate.

Finley was gone. She didn’t know how he had left last night, nor did she care.

Wren was just emerging from the kitchen with a tray of food. Seeing Larissa, she smiled. “Good morning, miss.”

Then as if she remembered something, she added, “Oh, someone from Mr. Paxton’s side dropped something off for you earlier. They said it was important you receive it personally.”

Wren walked into the living room and retrieved a crimson wooden box from the table, placing it carefully in front of Larissa.

Larissa pulled out a chair and opened the box. Inside lay a severed, bloody finger, a diamond ring still on it.

“Ah!” Wren screamed, her face draining of color. She fumbled to take the box away, trying to close the lid. “Miss, don’t be afraid! I’ll get rid of this horrible thing right now, you shouldn’t have to see this…”

In stark contrast to Wren’s panic, Larissa was perfectly calm. She gazed at the box and said softly, “Wren, it’s alright. There’s nothing to be afraid of.”

Just as Wren stared at her in confusion, Larissa’s phone rang. She answered it.

Paxton’s voice, hoarse and weak, came through the line. “Did you receive the gift I sent you?”

Wren, standing beside her, looked terrified. Larissa put a finger to her lips, signaling her to be quiet. Wren immediately calmed down.

“What I want depends on your attitude,” Paxton snarled.

“Just tell me what to do,” Larissa continued the charade. “Just don’t hurt my mother.”

“First, you will cure Finley,” Paxton commanded coldly. “Then, you will find a way to wake Leopold. Do those two things, and your mother will be returned to you unharmed. Fail, and the next gift you receive will be more than just a finger.”

He emphasized the last few words, his threat hanging heavy in the air.