Chapter 15
“You did it,” he said, moving to her side immediately. “That was perfect.”
“I feel like I’m going to be sick,” Petra admitted quietly.
“That’s to be expected,” Katja said, gathering her papers with practiced efficiency.
“Confrontation triggers adrenaline. You’ll crash in a few minutes, but it passes quickly.
” She gave Petra an approving look that softened her usually sharp features.
“You handled that beautifully, by the way. Müller tried every manipulation in the book, and you shut him down every time.”
“Did you see his face when I mentioned his spying on me?” Petra asked, her voice still shaky. “He knew exactly what I was talking about.”
“Of course he did.” Seth put a hand on her shoulder, offering silent support and warmth. “He’s been running information to someone this entire time. Now he knows we’re onto him, and that his game is over.”
“Will he tell them? About everything we’re doing?”
“Absolutely,” Katja said. “Which is why your new staff are already in position and ready to take over the moment these people are gone. By the time the enemy realizes what’s happened, you’ll have a completely loyal household.”
Petra nodded, but Seth could see she was still trembling slightly. He made a quick decision.
“Katja, can you coordinate with the new staff?”
“Of course.” The lawyer’s sharp eyes moved between him and Petra, understanding immediately what he wasn’t saying. “Take your time. I’ll handle the transition.”
She left, closing the door quietly behind her. Seth guided Petra to one of the leather chairs near the fireplace and crouched down in front of her, taking her hands in his.
“Hey,” he said softly. “Look at me.”
She did, and he could see the strain in her eyes, the emotional toll this had taken despite her brave front.
“You were incredible,” Seth said, meaning every word. “I know it didn’t feel like it, but you just faced down someone who’s held power in this castle for three decades, and you didn’t back down. That takes real courage.”
“I was so glad you were there with me.” Petra’s voice was small, vulnerable in a way that made Seth’s protective instincts flare. “But Seth, the way he looked at me at the end…like I’d betrayed him. Like I was the villain.”
“He was trying to manipulate you. His goal was to make you feel guilty, so you’d change your mind, or at least second-guess yourself.
” Seth squeezed her hands gently. “You did the right thing, Petra. Those people can’t be trusted with your safety.
Now you have staff who will actually protect you instead of working against you. ”
“When will they start? The new people?”
“Most of them are already on the estate, positioned around the property and waiting for the signal. Wilhelm, your new butler, is particularly impressive. He’ll take over the moment Müller’s off the grounds.
” Seth smiled slightly, trying to lighten her mood.
“And Anna, your new personal assistant, has already created a six-month organizational plan with color-coded priority systems. She’s terrifyingly efficient. ”
That got a small smile from Petra. “Really? That sounds impressive, and maybe a little obsessive.”
“Possibly, but it’s in the best possible way. Sam and Mark sent the highest quality people he had access to. You’re in excellent hands.”
They sat in comfortable silence for a moment, Seth still holding her hands while she caught her breath and processed what had just happened. The fire crackled softly in the hearth, and outside the windows, dusk was settling over the gardens.
Petra spoke after a moment, her voice stronger. “Thank you for backing me up when Müller got aggressive. I don’t think I could have stood up to him without you there.”
“Yes, you would,” Seth said firmly. “But I’m glad you didn’t have to try.” He stood, pulling her up with him. “Come on. Let’s go meet your new staff. They’re eager to start working to turn this place around, and for someone worth protecting.”
Petra’s smile was real this time, if still a bit shaky. “Worth protecting? You really think so?”
“I know so.” Seth tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, unable to resist touching her even in this small way. “Now let’s go introduce you to the people who are going to help you win this fight.”
They left the library together, and Seth texted Pax as they walked.
SETH: Status?
PAX: Old staff is packing. Müller’s taking his sweet time, making a show of it. But he’ll be out by deadline.
SETH: Any trouble?
PAX: Nothing we can’t handle. Dietrich tried to take some kitchen equipment that doesn’t belong to her. Ari politely suggested she reconsider.
Seth smiled despite himself. Ari’s version of “politely” probably involved growling and a flex of his rather impressive muscles.
SETH: Good. Let me know when they’re clear of the property.
PAX: Will do. This is almost too easy. I was expecting more drama.
SETH: The drama will come later. Stay alert.
By eight-fifteen, his phone buzzed again.
PAX: All clear. Old staff is off property. Müller gave us one last dirty look that could’ve curdled milk, but he left. Perimeter secure.
SETH: Excellent work. Maintain watch. They might try to come back or send someone else.
PAX: Already on it. Nobody’s getting past us.
Seth showed the message to Petra, who was standing with Katja and Wilhelm in the entrance hall.
The new butler had already taken charge with quiet authority, his presence somehow making the castle feel different, and definitely a bit less oppressive.
More like it could actually be a home instead of a prison.
“They’re gone,” Seth said. “The castle is yours now. Really and truly yours.”
Petra’s eyes shone with something that might have been tears or relief. “Thank you. All of you. I know this was a coordinated effort—”
“It was necessary work,” Wilhelm said in his cultured voice, his slight accent adding weight to the words. “And we are honored to serve someone who fights for what is right rather than giving in to what is easy or convenient.”
The other new staff murmured agreement. Looking at their faces, Seth saw the same thing he felt from them. He saw genuine respect for this brave woman who’d chosen the hard path instead of running when she had every reason to flee.
Yes, Petra was definitely worth protecting. And Seth was going to make absolutely certain that she survived whatever came next.
The entrance hall suddenly felt crowded with new faces, and Petra tried to remember all the names as Wilhelm made introductions with practiced efficiency.
“This is Helena Abados, your new housekeeper,” Wilhelm said, gesturing to a woman with steel-gray hair and dark brown eyes that somehow managed to be both intimidating and kind. “She will oversee all domestic operations and coordinate the household staff.”
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Ms. Haas,” Helena said, her handshake firm and warm. “I look forward to making this house run smoothly for you.”
“Thank you for coming on such short notice,” Petra said, meaning it. “I know this situation is unusual.”
“Unusual situations are my specialty,” Helena replied with a slight smile.
Next came three younger women who would serve as maids, named Greta, Marie, and Sarah.
They were all in their twenties or early thirties, professionally dressed, and greeted Petra with friendly but respectful demeanors.
Petra found herself relaxing slightly. These women seemed genuinely pleased to be here, unlike the previous maids who’d always looked nervous or resentful.
“Klaus Lichtner will be managing the grounds,” Wilhelm continued, introducing a massive man with gentle eyes and hands that looked like they could uproot trees. “He has extensive experience with estate management and security.”
“Welcome,” Petra said, having to tilt her head back to meet his eyes. He was even taller than Seth.
“Thank you, Ms. Haas. I will take good care of your beautiful grounds,” Klaus said in heavily accented English.
The new chef stepped forward next. André was slim and elegant with an air of quiet confidence and a shock of red hair that made him memorable.
“I am very pleased to meet you, mademoiselle,” he said with a distinctly French accent.
“I have already begun planning menus. I understand you are English, yes? I have some wonderful ideas for traditional English comfort foods that I think you will enjoy.”
“That sounds lovely,” Petra said, charmed despite her emotional exhaustion. “Though please, don’t go to too much trouble.”
“Cooking is never trouble when it is done for the right reasons,” André replied with a warm smile.
Wilhelm saved the most energetic introduction for last. “And this is Anna Lightfoot, who will serve as your personal assistant.”
Anna practically bounced forward, her enthusiasm infectious.
She was young and bright-eyed, clutching a tablet like it was a precious artifact.
“Ms. Haas! I’m so excited to work with you.
I’ve already reviewed all the estate documentation and created preliminary organizational systems. When you have time, I’d love to go over my ideas for streamlining communications and scheduling. ”
Petra blinked at the torrent of words. “That’s…very thorough. Thank you.”
“I believe in being prepared,” Anna said cheerfully.
“Also, I speak English, obviously, but also French, German, and a bit of Italian, so if you need any translation services, I’m happy to help.
And I’ve set up a secure email system for you, separate from the estate’s general accounts, so your communications will be private. ”
“She’s been on the job for less than twenty-four hours,” Seth murmured in Petra’s ear, sounding amused.
“I know,” Petra whispered back.
Looking at all these new faces, Petra felt something tight in her chest begin to loosen.
These people weren’t here because they’d been hired by Abdul Kettering decades ago.
They were here because they’d chosen to help her.
Because Sam Kinkaid and Mark Peppard trusted them and had sent them to protect her.
Two famous billionaires with stellar reputations and men Seth trusted. It was all a little surreal.
“Thank you,” Petra said, addressing all of them. “All of you. I know this isn’t a normal household position, and I know there are bound to be more complications, and maybe even some danger, but I’m grateful you’re all here.”
“We’re glad to be here,” Helena said, and the others murmured agreement. “Now, if you’ll excuse us, we should familiarize ourselves with the household. Wilhelm, perhaps you could show us around?”
“Of course,” the butler said smoothly. “Unless you need anything else this evening, Ms. Haas?”
“No, please. Get settled. I’m sure you all have a lot to learn about the castle.” Petra managed a smile despite her exhaustion.
The staff dispersed with quiet efficiency, leaving Petra alone with Seth and Katja in the entrance hall.
“Well,” Katja said, gathering her briefcase. “That went better than expected. I’m going to review some additional documents in my room. Petra, if you need me, just call.”
“Thank you, Katja, for everything you did today.”
The lawyer’s sharp features softened. “You did very well. Get some rest. Tomorrow will bring new challenges.”
She left, her heels clicking on the marble floor as she headed for the stairs. The sound faded, and suddenly Petra was very aware of being alone with Seth in the vast entrance hall.
“How are you holding up?” he asked quietly.
“I’m not sure yet,” Petra admitted. “This has all happened so fast. One minute I was terrified of firing Müller, and the next minute he was gone and there were all these new people and—” She stopped, realizing she was rambling. “Sorry. I’m just processing.”
“Don’t apologize.” Seth moved closer, his presence warm and solid. “You’ve had an intense day. You’re allowed to feel overwhelmed.”
“I should probably go to bed,” Petra said, but she didn’t move. The thought of going upstairs to her room alone, of lying awake replaying everything that had happened, felt exhausting.
“You should,” Seth agreed. But he didn’t move either. “Or…”
“Or?” Petra looked up at him.
“Or we could sit in the library for a bit. Decompress before you try to sleep.” His dark eyes were warm and inviting.
That sounded infinitely better than being alone with her thoughts. “Okay. Yes. That would be nice.”
They walked to the library together, and Seth closed the door behind them. The room felt different now. It was somehow safer, and more private. Petra moved to the couch near the fireplace and sank into the soft leather with a sigh.
Seth settled beside her, close enough that their shoulders touched. “Better?”
“Much.” Petra leaned into him without thinking, her head resting against his shoulder. “Is this okay?”
“Very okay.” His arm came around her, pulling her closer. “You can relax now, Petra. The hard part’s over.”
She closed her eyes, breathing in his woodsy scent that made her feel safe. “Thank you for standing behind me when I confronted Müller, and bringing in all these people to help. Thanks for…” She trailed off, not quite sure how to express what she was feeling.
“For being here?” Seth finished softly.
“Yes. For being here.” Petra tilted her head to look up at him. “I keep thinking about what you said last night. About this meaning something to you. Does it still? After seeing me nearly fall apart today?”
Seth’s hand came up to cup her face, his thumb brushing across her cheek. “Especially after seeing you nearly fall apart and then pull yourself together. Do you have any idea how strong you are?”
“I don’t feel strong.”
“The strongest people usually don’t.” He leaned down, his forehead resting against hers. “You’re incredible, Petra. I wish you could see yourself the way I see you.”
Her heart was beating too fast, her breath catching in her throat. “How do you see me?”
“Brave. Kind. Determined to do what’s right even when it scares you.” His voice dropped lower, sounding more intimate. “Beautiful. Especially when you look at me like that.”
“Like what?” Petra whispered.
“Like you want me to kiss you again.”
She did. She really did. “Would that be so terrible?”
“No.” Seth’s smile was slow and devastating. “It would be the best part of my day.”