The Truth in the Study
Morning light poured through the tall windows behind him, catching the dust suspended in the air. Andrew stood with his hands clasped behind his back.
“Ms. Langford,” he said evenly, “I am fully aware of your repeated absences, your late-night visitors, and your failure to supervise my children.”
Victoria’s posture stiffened.
“I don’t know what you’ve been told,” she replied quickly. “There must be some misunderstanding.”
Andrew’s gaze did not shift.
“There is no misunderstanding. Last night, my children were left alone long enough for fear to settle in. They were not under your care.”
She opened her mouth to respond, but he continued.
“Your contract is terminated, effective immediately. There will be no compensation beyond what has already been paid. My legal team will be contacting you regarding breach of agreement and negligence.”
The color left her face.
“You can’t do that,” she insisted. “This could damage my reputation.”
Andrew’s voice remained steady.
“Your actions damaged your reputation. I am simply responding.”
For a moment she looked as though she might push further. Then something in his expression stopped her. She gathered her belongings without another word.
By 8:25 a.m., she was gone.
