Chapter 14
Margaret—no, not my mother, but the estate staff who had known Hazel since infancy—began speaking more openly after the Price siblings lost access.
One housekeeper told me Evelyn once instructed her:
“If Hazel cries for Damon, wait ten minutes before calling him.”
Another:
“Do not bring comfort objects to formal rooms.”
Another:
“Do not mention Elena in front of guests.”
Every instruction had one goal.
Detach Hazel from the things that made her feel secure, then praise her when she adapted.
I listened.
Then changed one rule.
Any staff member could reach me directly about Hazel.
No chain.
No permission.
No fear of “overreacting.”
My security chief asked:
“What if people abuse that access?”
“Then I deal with too much information.”
I looked at him.
May you like
“Better than a child learning nobody comes.”
That became the new standard.
