The Housemaid's Secret
by Freida McFadden
Contents
Chapter 32
Overview
Millie confesses to Enzo the full details of Douglas Garrick’s abuse and Wendy’s escape, but Enzo warns that Douglas’s power makes retaliation likely. Millie forces Enzo to stop surveilling her, even as he offers to come immediately if she calls. Returning home, Millie fears Douglas may already be one step ahead, but her apartment is empty—leaving her anxiety unresolved and the threat still looming.
Summary
On the drive to Millie Calloway’s building, Millie tells Enzo everything she knows about Douglas Garrick’s abuse and how Wendy escaped with Millie’s help. Enzo listens silently, then cautions that Douglas is powerful and dangerous, and that Wendy’s disappearance is unlikely to remain simple.
Millie argues that Wendy is safe, but Enzo insists Millie is the one still exposed in New York. Millie pushes back, insisting she can protect herself and implying Douglas should fear what Millie might do if threatened.
Outside Millie’s apartment, Millie orders Enzo to stop following her, calling it creepy and unnecessary because she is dating Brock. Enzo agrees and gives his word he will stop watching, but he also reminds Millie that he still has the same phone number and will come if she calls.
After leaving the car, Millie feels less relieved than expected and grows increasingly uneasy about Enzo’s warning. In the stairwell, she realizes how easy it would be for someone to break into her apartment and wonders if Douglas anticipated Wendy’s escape and is waiting for her.
Millie considers calling Enzo for backup but chooses to enter alone. Inside, she finds the apartment quiet and empty, then locks the deadbolt, unsettled by the possibility that Douglas may soon connect her to Wendy’s disappearance.
Who Appears
- Millie CallowayConfides in Enzo, rejects his protection, then fears Douglas and checks her apartment alone.
- EnzoMillie’s ex; warns Douglas is dangerous, promises to stop watching, offers help if called.
- Douglas GarrickAbusive, powerful husband; looming threat as Millie fears he may target her for Wendy’s escape.
- Wendy GarrickEscaped abuse; her safety is debated as Enzo doubts Douglas will let her disappear easily.
- BrockMillie’s current boyfriend, mentioned as the alternative to Enzo’s protection.