Chapter 17. The Woman in the Painting

Layla’s POV

Stepping up on the stairs leading to the fifth and final floor I felt an eerie chill run through my body.

The oakwood staircase was cleaned and shining as though someone maintained them frequently.

It didn’t look like a floor that was off limits so then why was it?

Looking back to make sure I wasn’t spotted I continued up the stairs. There was a red satin covered chain that hung from rail to rail explicitly telling people to not step further. I ducked under it, probably against my better judgment.

“Is this a good idea?” Clara asked me with a shake in her worried voice.

Probably not but who could it hurt?

There were two double doors and one single, all of them locked. I pressed harder trying to open it but it wouldn’t budge and there was no chance I’d get in there without breaking it so I stopped.

Instead I walked down the hallway. It was dusted and cleaned, maintained to the t’ and perfectly preserved. There was a wo