Arthur stood near the tall grand window of his living room on a bright Tuesday morning.
He looked out at the sunny garden while holding a warm cup of black coffee.
His young daughter Lily was playing quietly with her plastic building blocks on the plush carpet.
The mansion felt peaceful, but Arthur knew that peace was about to end very soon.
His late wife's sister Brenda had arrived three days ago claiming she needed a temporary place to stay.
Arthur had offered her the guest suite because he wanted to support his late wife's family.
However, Brenda had brought an unpleasant energy into the peaceful household from the moment she arrived.
She complained about the food, criticized the housekeepers, and treated the staff with disrespect.
Arthur tried his best to remain polite for the sake of his young daughter.
Lily was only six years old and missed her mother deeply every single day.
Arthur worked long hours as the founder of a successful real estate investment firm in the city.
He spent his wealth ensuring that Lily had every comfort and protection possible.
Brenda walked down the curved marble staircase wearing an oversized casual t-shirt and slippers.
She poured herself a glass of juice without saying good morning to anyone in the room.
Brenda: This place is always so quiet and boring in the morning.
Arthur: We like the quiet morning routine, Brenda.
Brenda: A house this huge needs more life and excitement.
Arthur: Lily is enjoying her morning blocks before tutor arrives.
Brenda rolled her eyes and set her glass down hard on the kitchen counter.
She looked around the vast grand foyer with an obvious expression of jealousy and bitterness.
Her own financial situation had collapsed after several failed business ventures in another state.
She believed that her late sister had been lucky to marry a wealthy mansion owner like Arthur.
Arthur noticed the sharp glare Brenda gave toward little Lily near the marble hallway.
He felt a sudden chill in his chest, though he tried to dismiss the bad thought.
Arthur: I have an important board meeting at the downtown office today.
Brenda: Go ahead, I can watch the house and Lily easily.
Arthur: The nanny will be here in twenty minutes to take charge.
Brenda: I am her aunt, so I can handle a child.
Arthur adjusted his dark grey suit jacket and checked his wrist watch carefully.
He leaned down to kiss Lily on her forehead before picking up his leather briefcase.
Lily: Daddy, please come back home early today.
Arthur: I will be back right after lunch, my sweetheart.
Arthur walked toward the grand front door while his driver waited outside near the white car.
He felt an unusual weight in his heart as he closed the double doors behind him.
Brenda watched the luxury car pull down the long driveway with a cold glare.
She turned back toward the grand foyer where Lily was playing quietly with her favorite doll.
The vast house was quiet now, leaving Brenda alone with the young girl for the first time.