Arthur paced across the bright white foyer while his personal assistant brought a glass of cold water for the weeping child. Evelyn sat on the bottom step of the grand staircase, her small legs swinging nervously as she sipped the water. The whole situation felt completely wrong. If Sarah had entered the estate three days ago, the digital security logs should have recorded her entry. Yet, when Arthur checked the main computer terminal in his office moments earlier, the camera logs for that specific night had been completely wiped clean.
Arthur: Evelyn, think very carefully. Did you see who your mommy spoke to when you both arrived that night?
Evelyn: A tall lady with shiny hair gave mommy a glass of juice. Then mommy got sleepy and couldn't walk right.
Arthur felt a cold knot form in his stomach. His wife, Victoria, was the only woman living in the main residence. Victoria had frequently complained about Sarah's potential claims to the family business and the impending settlement from the late brother's life insurance policies. Victoria wanted everything reserved exclusively for her own lavish lifestyle and high-society charitable galas.
Evelyn: I tried to look for her yesterday! I hid in the flower beds until the guards walked past!
Arthur: Did you hear anything inside the house while you were looking?
Evelyn: Yes! I put my ear against the big floor right here! I heard tapping sound underneath!
Evelyn ran over to a specific section of the foyer where the white marble tiles met a decorative mosaic border. She dropped to her knees and knocked her little knuckles against the cold stone floor.
Evelyn: Mommy always plays our secret knock game! Three fast taps and two slow taps!
Arthur knelt down beside the young child and placed his palm against the sleek marble surface. The floor felt strangely cold compared to the rest of the heated house. He pressed his ear against the gap between two large stone slabs and waited in complete silence.
Arthur: Everyone remain completely still. Don't make a single sound.
A tiny, rhythmic thumping echoed faintly from deep beneath the solid floorboards. Three quick taps, followed by two slow, weak thuds. Arthur jumped to his feet, his jaw tight with sudden rage and shock.
Arthur: SHOW ME where the service access panels are located! Right now!