Elena had lived in the small staff house behind the main mansion for two years.
She took great pride in keeping the estate spotless every single day.
Arthur Sterling had always treated her with kindness and fairness.
He paid her extra when she worked late events for his company guests.
He helped cover her mother's medical bills when times were difficult last winter.
Elena felt deep gratitude toward Arthur because he was a good man with a caring heart.
However, the atmosphere inside the mansion changed completely six months ago.
That was the month Arthur married Victoria after a brief romance in the city.
Victoria came from high society, but she was cold to the household staff.
She often complained about small details and raised her voice without reason.
Elena noticed how Victoria spent large amounts of money from Arthur's joint accounts.
Victoria bought designer clothes, expensive jewelry, and fine art every week.
Yet Victoria always seemed unhappy whenever Arthur spoke about updating his last will.
Arthur wanted to leave a large portion of his estate to his biological daughter from his first marriage.
Victoria wanted full control over the inheritance, the mansion, and the family trust fund.
Elena had overheard several heated phone conversations in the library last month.
Victoria spoke in low whispers to a private lawyer late at night.
She asked detailed legal questions about life insurance policies and spousal benefits.
Elena felt a strange knot of worry form inside her stomach back then.
She decided to pay closer attention to Victoria's strange daily routines around the house.
Two days ago, Elena found a small glass bottle hidden behind silver platters in the pantry.
The bottle had no label, but it contained a fine white powder with no odor.
Elena did not throw the bottle away or mention it to Victoria right away.
She set up a hidden camera near the high kitchen cabinets instead.
She wanted to make sure her suspicions were completely wrong before making accusations.
She hoped with all her heart that Victoria was not plotting anything dangerous.
Now standing in the messy kitchen, Elena knew her worries had been completely justified.
She held her smartphone firmly with both hands as Arthur stepped closer to look.
Arthur: What is on that phone screen, Elena?
Arthur: Show me what you are talking about this instant.
Victoria made a fast grab for the device with a quick reach.
Victoria: Do not look at her nonsense, Arthur!
Victoria: She is trying to create drama to save her job!
Arthur blocked Victoria's arm with a firm movement of his elbow.
Arthur: Stand back, Victoria!
Arthur: I want to see what my housekeeper wants to show me!