205 GRIM FATE

Rochester had anticipated that something of this nature might arise, which is why he had remained locked inside his study all day, expecting Simon to provide an update on Haswell's deceptive intentions.

True to Rochester's suspicions, Haswell had indeed acted in a deceptive manner, and Simon had informed him earlier in the morning of a suspicious encounter between Haswell and an unfamiliar guest in a secluded area of the house.

In response, Rochester had increased surveillance on Haswell, determined to catch him in the act. The men who had just left the room were part of the vigilant team Rochester had assembled to monitor Haswell's activities within the manor. However, news had reached Rochester that Haswell was currently no longer on the premises.

Without wasting a moment, as soon as Haswell had sneaked out, Rochester had instructed Simon and other members of his team to follow behind him.