Victoria gasped as she stumbled backward across the smooth marble floor.
She realized that her comfortable lifestyle and status were slipping away in seconds.
Victoria: You will regret this, Marcus! My lawyers will take half your money!
Marcus: You won't get a single dime from my estate or my trust fund!
Marcus ignored her completely and immediately turned his attention to Elena and Lily.
He dropped down onto his knees on the hard floor right beside them.
The powerful billionaire did not care about his dark suit or his clean image anymore.
He wrapped his strong arms around both Elena and his crying baby daughter.
Elena let out a loud, screaming sob of pure emotional relief.
She had carried the heavy burden of this terrible secret for far too long.
Marcus pulled them tight against his chest near the grand American flag display.
Marcus: I'm so sorry... I'm so sorry I wasn't here to protect you.
Elena: She was so cruel to her, Mr. Sterling...
Marcus: You don't have to explain anything right now, Elena. You're safe now.
Little Lily reached out her tiny hand and gripped her father's collar tightly.
Marcus kissed his daughter's forehead, feeling his own tears fall down his face.
He looked at Elena with deep gratitude and respect in his eyes.
Marcus: You saved my daughter today. You protected her when I failed to see the truth.
Elena: I love this little girl like my own family, sir.
Marcus: You are family to us, Elena. You will never have to fear anyone again.
Meanwhile, Victoria stood near the entryway, her face twisted in bitter hatred.
She realized that her performance as the perfect stepmother was officially over.
Two security guards, who had heard the commotion from outside, entered the main hall.
Marcus did not even look back at Victoria as he gave his final orders.
Marcus: Escort this woman off my property immediately.
Marcus: If she sets foot on this land again, have the police arrest her for trespassing.
Victoria: You can't do this to me! Do you know who my family is?!
Marcus: Escort her out now.