The Years Between Signing and Seeing novel Chapter 169

“Someone, open this wardrobe!”

A nearby servant looked on awkwardly, her eyes flicking to Jamie as if seeking his permission.

“What are you looking at him for? Does my word no longer carry any weight in this house?” Richard thundered at her.

Jamie was silent for a few seconds before speaking in a placating tone. “Grandpa, don’t be angry. Of course, you’re in charge of the Baylor family.” Then, turning to the servant, he commanded sternly, “Go on. Open it.”

The servant didn’t dare hesitate a second longer. She rushed to the wardrobe and pulled the doors open without a second thought.

Richard hurried over to look inside, with Jamie right behind him. A row of neatly hung clothes was all they saw.

Richard frowned, his eyes scanning every inch. He looked left, then right, and finally bent down to peer at the bottom. A sudden gasp escaped him.

“Suzie?! Suzie?!”

Richard called her name with startled urgency, dropped to the floor and reached in to pull at her arm. Jamie bent down to look as well.

There, huddled in a corner of the cabinet, was Suzie. Her arms were wrapped tightly around her knees, her head buried. Slowly, she began to lift it.

Curled into a tiny ball, she looked fragile and utterly helpless. The exhausted, aggrieved look in her eyes caught Jamie off guard. It had only been a few minutes. How had she transformed so completely?

Richard caught the look. Seeing her pitiful state, his concern instantly erupted into fury. “Did this little bastard lock you in the closet?!” he roared, pointing an accusing finger at Jamie.

Suzie simply frowned and trembled her lip, saying nothing. To Richard, her silence was a confession.

Fuming, Richard grabbed Suzie’s wrist and started pulling her from the room. As they passed Jamie, he let out a cold snort. “You, come to the study! Now!”

Jamie’s brow furrowed. He ran a finger over his eyebrow, his eyes narrowing as he watched Suzie’s retreating back. This woman… he didn't know her at all. Playing games with him? Fine.

As Richard led her away, Suzie couldn’t resist a quick glance back at Jamie. His face had gone dark with anger.