Schemes and Sanctuary

The call went through, and it was obvious Clive hadn't expected Cora to be on the other end.

He needed money but wasn't stupid. Cora was now a wealthy heiress. He wouldn't risk extorting a rich girl, but if she came to him first, that changed everything.

"Well, well, isn't it my niece Cora? What brings you to call me?" Clive asked.

Cora swallowed her disgust and cautiously asked, "Did you go to th