Victoria stepped slowly out of the dark shadow near the courtyard entrance.
She held a half-empty glass of expensive champagne in her right hand.
A smug and cold expression was painted across her heavily made-up face.
Marcus stood up slowly, his body shaking with overwhelming rage.
Marcus: Did you do this to my son?
Victoria: Where is your stepson? He is exactly where he belongs.
Marcus could not believe the heartless words coming out of her mouth.
Marcus: He is a seven-year-old child, Victoria! You locked him in a cage!
Victoria: He is a weak boy who stands between you and real power.
She explained calmly that she wanted Marcus to focus only on her family's fortune.
She hated that Marcus put his small son ahead of her demands and wishes.
Victoria wanted to teach the boy a lesson so he would learn to stay quiet.
She raised her left hand to show a heavy brass key shining under the lights.
Marcus took a step forward, but Victoria stepped back toward the courtyard edge.
She threatened to throw the key deep into the dark drain if he stepped closer.
Victoria: If you want a future with my money, you will obey my rules.
Marcus felt a sharp wave of anger wash over his entire body.
He realized that this wealthy woman was completely cruel and unhinged.
His family's safety mattered more to him than any business investment or money.
Ethan sobbed softly from inside the cage, calling for his father again.
Marcus locked eyes with Victoria, refusal burning deep in his chest.
He was not going to let anyone hurt his innocent child ever again.
Victoria smirked and began to swing her arm back toward the deep water drain.
Marcus did not hesitate for a single second and launched himself forward.