Mark sat inside his spacious office, reviewing important financial documents for his company.
The sun streamed through the large windows, casting a warm light across his wooden desk.
He had spent ten years building his business into a successful venture.
After losing his first wife, Mark focused entirely on protecting his two children.
His daughter Lily was eight years old and very protective of her little brother.
Baby Leo was only eleven months old and had just started learning to crawl.
Six months ago, Mark married Victoria, believing she would bring warmth back home.
Victoria was young, elegant, and always wore designer clothes around the estate.
However, Lily never felt comfortable around her new stepmother.
Lily often noticed Victoria looking at the children with cold indifference when Mark left.
Mark loved his family deeply and tried hard to keep everyone happy.
He placed full trust in Victoria and gave her access to family accounts.
He wanted his home to be a place of peace and safety.
Yet, small arguments had begun breaking out over minor household expenses.
Victoria frequently complained about the noise the children made during the afternoon.
She wanted quiet hours so she could host her friends in the living room.
Mark gently asked her to be patient with a growing baby.
Victoria smiled tightly and promised she would try harder every single day.
That morning, Mark had an urgent meeting scheduled at his downtown office.
He kissed Leo on the forehead before reaching for his leather briefcase.
Mark: I will return before dinner time today.
Victoria: Take your time, darling, we will be fine.
Mark felt a slight knot in his stomach as he walked out.
He noticed Lily standing near the kitchen counter, watching Victoria quietly.
Lily did not say goodbye to Victoria, keeping her arms folded tightly.
Mark assumed it was just normal childhood jealousy toward a stepmother.
He drove off toward the city center, leaving his children behind.
Inside the mansion, the atmosphere shifted immediately after the gates closed.
Victoria dropped her pleasant smile and walked past the grand staircase.
She glanced at the large family portrait hanging above the marble floor.
In the picture, Mark held his late wife while holding little Lily.
Victoria scowled at the frame and turned toward the wide kitchen.
Lily picked up her sketchbook and sat on the bottom stair step.
Leo crawled out from the playpen, giggling softly near the hallway.
Victoria walked out of the kitchen holding a glass of iced juice.
She saw Leo reaching for the hem of her expensive gown.
Victoria: Get away from me, you messy little thing!
Lily: Leave him alone, Victoria!
Victoria glared at the little girl with sharp, angry eyes.
Victoria: Mind your own business and go to your room!
Lily stood up, refusing to move away from her brother.
The conflict between them was growing stronger with every passing minute.