Chapter 417. And If I Do?

Philippe shut the door behind them, checking to see if the locks worked, then moving to check the bathroom and the window latches.

She watched him in silence. When she could no longer control her curiosity, she spoke.

“Did you say that this house belongs to my Pappa?’ she asked in incredulity, turning to face Philippe. To her astonishment and growing suspicion, he looked slightly embarrassed as he grunted, avoiding her eyes.

“Yes…it used to be…’ he sighed and took out his guns and keys, laying them on the table, his back to her. The wheels in Ria’s head began to turn.

She crossed the room and grabbed Philippe’s arm, digging her nails into the jacket as she said, frowning fiercely,

"Are you saying that…?’ She gulped and forced the words out, “Is that …that woman…?’

Philippe gently prised her hand off his arm and spoke in a level tone.

“Carmen is a…ummm…manager of sorts. She takes care of the …uh…guests who sometimes stay here, to make sure th