Mark stood up holding baby Toby firmly against his chest while helping Emily reach a couch.
The anger inside him was burning hotter than anything he had ever felt in his life.
He turned toward the grand curved staircase that led directly up to the luxurious master suite.
A shadow suddenly moved across the top hallway landing beneath the dim decorative wall sconces.
Brenda stepped out into the light holding a half-empty glass of red wine in her hand.
She was wearing an expensive silk robe that Mark had purchased for her previous birthday celebration.
Her eyebrows raised in mild surprise when she spotted Mark standing near the living room rug.
Brenda: Well, look who decided to return home without giving his wife any notice at all.
Mark: Over my dead body will you ever step foot near my children again!
Brenda let out a cold laugh as she casually walked down the carpeted stairs toward him.
Brenda: Don't make a dramatic scene in my house, Mark. You are being completely ridiculous tonight.
Mark: Your house? I bought this house long before I ever met a snake like you!
Brenda: Those ungrateful kids were making constant noise while I was trying to relax downstairs.
Brenda: I simply put them where they belong so I could enjoy my quiet evening peace.
Mark took three sharp steps forward and pointed his index finger directly into Brenda's arrogant face.
Mark: You starved my infant son and locked my injured daughter in a freezing basement room!
Brenda: They are dramatic, Mark! Emily twisted her ankle because she is clumsy and stupid.
Brenda: And that baby cries every five minutes just to get unnecessary attention from everyone around.
Mark had to use every ounce of self control not to scream in her face right then.
Mark: Where is the cash I left in the kitchen safe before I flew away?
Brenda smirked slightly and took another slow sip from her expensive crystal wine glass evening frame.
Brenda: I used it to pay for my spa package and a brand new designer handbag online.
Brenda: After all, I deserve compensation for babysitting your baggage while you were traveling around.
Mark felt a cold chill run through his body as he realized Brenda's true evil character.
She had never loved him or cared about building a real family with his beloved children.
She only wanted his comfortable salary, his grand house, and his generous financial support every month.