The morning sun brightened the grand entry hall of the large suburban estate.
Mark stood near the doorway while checking his watch every few seconds.
His sweet daughter Lily sat quietly on a nearby chair while holding her favorite toy.
Lily wore a simple yellow dress that brightened her small smile.
A thick white plaster cast covered her right leg from knee to ankle.
Mark knelt down to adjust the soft blanket over her small lap.
Mark: Are you feeling comfortable right now, sweetheart?
Lily: Yes daddy, but my leg still feels a little heavy.
Mark: Just rest here while the guests start to arrive for dinner.
Mark loved his daughter more than anything else in the entire world.
He worked hard as a property manager to build a safe life for them.
Two years ago, he married Victoria after meeting her through mutual business partners.
Victoria came from a wealthy background and loved showing off her high status.
She always insisted on hosting expensive parties in their massive home.
However, Victoria rarely showed any real warmth toward young Lily.
Mark often hoped that time would heal the rift between his new wife and daughter.
Victoria suddenly stepped into the hall wearing a bright emerald green dress.
Victoria: Why is she sitting right near the main entrance where everyone walks?
Mark: Lily wants to welcome our family friends as they enter.
Victoria: Her bulky cast looks completely untidy in these family pictures.
Mark: She suffered a clean fracture playing at school last week.
Victoria: Move her to the upper floor out of sight immediately.
Mark felt a cold knot form inside his chest at her harsh tone.
He did not want to start an argument right before guests arrived.
Mark: Let her stay down here until dinner is officially served.
Victoria: I am the hostess, and I will not argue with you.
Victoria turned her head away with a sharp and cold look.
Guests began walking through the double front doors with warm gifts.
Mark greeted his older sister Clara near the tall wooden coat rack.
Clara: How is little Lily doing with her broken leg today?
Mark: She is being very brave, but Victoria is feeling stressed.
Clara: Victoria always puts on a show for these wealthy estate guests.
Mark: I just want everyone to have a peaceful evening together.
Lily smiled softly as Clara handed her a small stuffed bear.
Meanwhile, Victoria spoke loudly with rich donors near the grand staircase.
She laughed loudly while showing off her shiny diamond ring.
Mark watched her carefully from across the shiny marble floor.
He noticed how Victoria ignored Lily whenever the girl spoke up.
The atmosphere inside the grand foyer felt increasingly tense and cold.
Mark took a deep breath as more heavy coats were collected.
He hoped the family dinner would pass without any major conflict.
Yet deep down, Mark knew Victoria was hiding deep anger inside.