Nathan walked past Victoria without looking back and headed straight up the stairs.
He entered Lily's spacious bedroom, where Elena was applying a cold compress to her cheek.
Lily sat on the edge of her bed, holding a stuffed teddy bear close.
Nathan: How are you feeling, sweetie?
Lily: Better now that you are home, Daddy.
Nathan sat beside her on the soft mattress, taking her tiny hand in his.
Nathan: Has she ever put her hands on you before today?
Lily looked down at her lap, her small shoulders slumping in quiet shame.
Lily: She slapped my hand last week when I broke a teacup.
Lily: She said you would send me away to boarding school if I told you.
Nathan felt a terrible knot of rage tighten deep within his chest.
He looked up at Elena, whose cheek was already beginning to show red bruising.
Nathan: Elena, why didn't you call my personal cell phone earlier?
Elena: She took my phone away three weeks ago, Mr. Miller.
Elena: She threatened to have me deported if I tried to leave the property.
Elena: I stayed here only to make sure Lily was protected from her temper.
Nathan stared at the loyal housemaid with profound respect and immense gratitude.
Nathan: You saved my daughter today, Elena.
Nathan: I am going to hire the best legal representation to protect you completely.
Nathan: You will never have to worry about your status or your job again.
Elena: Thank you, Mr. Miller.
Heavy footsteps echoed from the driveway outside as two police cruisers pulled up.
Nathan looked out the bedroom window and saw red and blue lights flashing bright.
He kissed Lily's forehead gently before standing up to return to the lower level.
Nathan: Stay here with Elena, sweetie.
Nathan: This will all be over in just a few minutes.