Arthur placed his hands against the cold metal vent grate.
He could hear soft breathing coming from the other side.
A tiny voice called out for help from the darkness.
Leo: Daddy, it is very cold in here!
Arthur gasped as horror filled his heart completely.
He turned around to face his wife with great anger.
Arthur: Where is the key to this door, Victoria?
Stepmother: I do not have the key with me!
Arthur: Give me the key right now, or I break it!
Victoria backed away toward the front entry doors.
She realized that her evil scheme was completely falling apart.
She pulled a small silver key out of her coat pocket.
Arthur snatched the key and unlocked the heavy metal latch.
The door swung open, revealing the dark storage space.
Little Leo sat on the floor, holding a bread crust.
Arthur reached in and pulled his son out immediately.
He held the small toddler tightly against his chest.
Tears ran down the strong man's face without stopping.
Arthur: I am so sorry, my sweet little boy!
Mia ran over and wrapped her arms around them both.
Mia: I gave him bread, Daddy, like you said!
Arthur: You are the bravest girl in the world, Mia.
Victoria tried to speak, but her voice shook badly.
Stepmother: I was only keeping him safe while cleaning!
Arthur: Do not lie to me ever again, Victoria!
Arthur stood up, holding both children close to him.
He pulled his smartphone from his coat pocket quickly.
He dialed his top family lawyer right on the spot.
Arthur: Prepare immediate divorce papers and call the police!
Victoria screamed out in anger as her plan failed completely.
She realized she would get no money from the estate.
Her greed had ruined her entire life forever.