As the weeks went by, Maria noticed troubling changes in Elena's behavior.
Whenever Ethan was away on business, Elena rarely spoke to the infant kindly.
She complained about his crying and insisted he stay in the nursery all day.
Maria made sure to stay close to Leo whenever Ethan left town.
One Tuesday afternoon, Ethan was preparing for a major board meeting downtown.
He kissed Leo's forehead and said goodbye to Elena near the main entrance.
Ethan: Take good care of our boy while I am away, darling.
Elena: Of course, my love. He is safe in my hands.
Ethan smiled and stepped out toward his waiting town car.
As soon as the front doors closed, Elena turned around with a cold look.
Maria was standing near the end of the hallway, holding a clean blanket.
She saw the sharp glare Elena directed toward the nursery upstairs.
Elena: Go clean the guest house on the east wing, Maria.
Maria: But ma'am, it is time for Leo's afternoon nap.
Elena: Did I ask for your opinion, maid? Do what I told you right now!
Maria felt a terrible knot tie itself in her stomach.
The guest house was far from the main residence on the property.
If she went there, no one would be in the main house to watch Elena.
Maria nodded slowly and walked out through the back door.
However, instead of going to the guest house, Maria hid behind the stone pillars.
She watched the back entrance and listened carefully through the open kitchen window.
Minutes passed in total silence as the grand house stood still.
Then, Maria heard the soft sound of a baby starting to whimper upstairs.
She took off her formal apron and tiptoed back toward the side entryway.
Her heart beat wildly against her ribs as she slipped back into the quiet home.
She knew that stepping up against her employer's wife could cost her job.
Yet, the urge to protect the innocent baby was stronger than any fear.