The dark sedan pulled up to the iron gates of the grand estate.
Leo looked out the window with a heavy feeling in his chest.
He had not visited his family's home in over four long years.
Beside him sat four-year-old Toby, clutching a small plastic toy car.
Toby: Is this big house where your family lives, Papa?
Leo: Yes, buddy, but remember to stay close to me today.
The driver opened the door as they arrived at the main driveway.
The sun shone brightly over the manicured gardens and outdoor patio.
A massive American flag hung proudly against the white stone wall.
Servants moved back and forth carrying heavy trays of fruit and wine.
Leo took a deep breath to calm his rising anxiety.
He came today only to settle the last details of his father's estate.
He did not want any trouble or long arguments with his relatives.
Leo: Just be polite and say hello to your grandmother Beatrice.
Toby: Okay, Papa, I will be a very good boy.
They walked across the smooth marble floor toward the open patio terrace.
In the center stood Beatrice, wearing an elegant emerald green tailored dress.
She turned her head slowly and looked at Leo with cold eyes.
Beatrice: So you finally decided to show your face back home.
Leo: I came for the family reading, Beatrice, nothing more.
Beatrice: And you brought this little boy into our home without asking.
Leo tightened his grip on Toby's small hand protecting him instantly.
Leo: Toby is my son and your grandson, Beatrice.
Beatrice: He does not belong in this social circle, Leo.
Victoria stepped out from the main hall holding a glass of champagne.
She wore a bright crimson red gown that swept across the stone.
Victoria: Look who decided to grace us with his ordinary presence.
Leo: Hello, Victoria, I see you have not changed at all.
Victoria: Why should we change when this house belongs to us?
Toby hid behind his father's leg, feeling the heavy tension around them.
Toby: Papa, I am hungry from the long ride.
Leo: I will get you something nice to eat right now.
Leo walked over to the long banquet table loaded with hot meals.
He filled a clean white plate with warm pasta and red sauce.
Leo: Here you go, Toby, sit right near the table.
Toby: Thank you, Papa, it looks so delicious!
Toby held the heavy plate carefully with both of his tiny hands.
He walked toward a nearby bench to eat his warm lunch quieted.
Beatrice watched the young child with deep annoyance in her expression.
She walked past him with quick and stiff steps across the floor.
She intentionally bumped her foot against the heavy porcelain plate he held.
The plate flew out of Toby's hands and shattered on the ground.
Hot red sauce splattered all over his neat navy blue suit coat.