Days passed in a smooth, quiet rhythm, yet Carolina’s nerves never settled. Each morning she rose before dawn, dressed in her plain uniform, tucked her glasses into place, and stepped into the life of “Angela,” the new maid.

The house itself, though grand and pristine, felt oddly lifeless. The staff moved like silent shadows, barely exchanging more than necessary words.

The head maid, Sophia, had warmed up to Carolina more quickly than expected, thanks to Katherine’s tips, and ...