The tension in the grand estate reached a boiling point as more family members gathered near.
Arthur's uncle, Richard, stepped out from the main hallway holding a thick brown leather portfolio.
Richard was the estate trustee, appointed by Arthur's late grandfather to oversee the family trust fund.
His face looked pale and solemn as he observed Victoria demanding control of the infant girl.
He cleared his throat loudly, drawing the immediate attention of the entire room.
Victoria turned her head sharply toward Richard, expecting him to side with her ambitious financial plans.
She had promised Richard a handsome legal fee if he approved the release of the money early.
However, Richard held an extra document that had been locked in a private bank vault.
Richard: Victoria, there is something about the trust fund you need to hear immediately.
Victoria: Just hand over the signed papers so we can finalize the estate transfer!
Richard: The late chairman added a final clause twenty-four hours before he passed away.
Victoria: What clause could possibly change my rights as the legal mother?
Richard opened the leather folder slowly and drew out a crisp sheet of legal paper.
Arthur watched his uncle with cautious hope, holding little Lily securely against his chest.
The infant had finally stopped crying, resting her small head against Arthur's warm shoulder.
Richard put on his reading glasses and read the written words aloud for everyone to hear.
The document stated that any parent showing cruelty or neglect would forfeit all rights immediately.
Furthermore, full control of the mansion and the bank accounts would belong solely to Arthur.
Victoria's face turned completely pale as the sudden reality of the situation hit her hard.
Her ambitious plans to secure the family fortune were unraveling right before her eyes.
Victoria: That document is a fake created to steal my rightful inheritance!
Richard: The signature was certified yesterday by the county court judge himself.
Victoria: I will hire the best divorce lawyer in the state to destroy this!
Arthur: You can hire whoever you want, but you will not take Lily.
Victoria glared at Arthur with pure hatred, realizing her financial leverage was vanishing quickly.
She had counted on using the baby to maintain her high-society lifestyle and endless wealth.
Now she faced total financial ruin and the public embarrassment of being cast aside completely.
The guests began to turn their backs on her, whispering harsh words about her cruel behavior.
Victoria took a quick step backward, her mind racing to find another way out of this trap.