The grand foyer of the Vance mansion was always cold and quiet.
David Vance adjusted his grey tie as he walked through the heavy front doors.
He was a successful business owner who spent long hours at his office.
His young daughter Lily was the most important person in his whole world.
Since his first wife passed away, David tried hard to give Lily a good life.
He had recently married Clara, hoping to bring a mother's warmth back into the house.
Suddenly, a loud and sharp scream echoed from the top of the grand staircase.
David looked up toward the high balcony in pure horror.
Lily was tumbling over the white wooden railing into midair.
His heart stopped as time seemed to slow down completely.
David threw his briefcase to the floor and sprinted across the polished marble.
He dove forward with his arms stretched out as far as he could reach.
Lily hit his chest hard, but David caught her tightly in his arms.
They slid together across the slick marble floor until they came to a stop.
David was breathing heavily, his entire body trembling from the sudden shock.
He held the little girl against his chest, checking her arms and legs.
Lily: Daddy! I was so scared!
David: Shh, it is okay baby, I got you.
Lily: She pushed me, Daddy! She told me bye-bye!
David felt a surge of cold fury rush through his chest instantly.
He looked up to the top of the stairs to see Clara standing near the rail.
Clara was wearing a white shirt and black pants, looking down at them in horror.
There was a fresh purple bruise forming right along Clara's cheekbone.
David stood up slowly, lifting Lily onto his hip while keeping her close.
His hands were shaking as he stared at his new wife with deep betrayal.
He began walking up the grand staircase, step by heavy step.
Clara took a small step backward, her face pale as a sheet.
Clara: David, please let me explain what just happened!
David: Don't you ever dare touch my child again!
Clara: It was an accident, I was trying to save her!
David reached the top of the stairs and pointed his finger toward the front door.
David: Get out of my house!
Clara collapsed onto the cold marble floor, tears streaming down her face.
She held her bruised cheek in her hand, sobbing softly as David turned away.
He carried Lily straight to her bedroom, slamming the heavy wooden door behind them.
He locked the door tightly, determined to keep his daughter safe from harm.