Chapter 8 - THE SISTER DRESSED AS THE DEAD WOMAN.
The woman in the passage was Celeste’s identical sister, Marianne.
Daniel had never known she existed.
Their wealthy father raised Celeste publicly and sent Marianne to live with relatives after deciding one daughter was enough for the family trust.
Celeste inherited schools, property, and social status.
Marianne inherited secrecy and monthly payments she could lose with one complaint.
Victoria later recruited Marianne because she could move through the mansion wearing Celeste’s face.
She had delivered the sedative, forged medical records, and appeared on cameras whenever Victoria needed Celeste blamed.
Marianne looked at her sister.
“You got the name, the husband, and the life. I got instructions.”
Celeste answered, “You also chose to help them bury me.”
Marianne’s voice broke.
“They told me obedience was the only reason I was not poor.”
Lucy looked at Victoria.
“You make people afraid, then call them loyal.”
Marianne surrendered the remaining sedative and admitted Thomas was held because he discovered her identity.
She also revealed Victoria planned to place Daniel in the same private residence used for Celeste.
The incompetency order was only the first step.
Then she handed Lucy a sealed envelope from Thomas.
Inside was a birth certificate.
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Lucy Bennett’s biological mother was not listed as deceased.
The name printed there was Celeste Ashford.
