The estate security guard opened the heavy front door for Eleanor.
She pulled her heavy suitcases behind her onto the stone driveway.
The black security patrol car waited to escort her off property.
She threw her bags into the trunk and slammed it shut.
Richard closed the large wooden door and locked it firmly behind.
He took a deep breath of relief as peace returned inside.
Lily came walking down the winding stairs wearing comfortable blue jeans.
She ran directly across the foyer and hugged her father tightly.
Lily: Is she really gone for good now, Dad?
Richard: She is gone and she will never come back.
Lily: I was so worried you would take her side.
Richard: I will always protect you no matter what happens.
Arthur finished putting his legal files back inside his briefcase slowly.
He walked over to Richard and shook his hand with respect.
Lawyer: The court hearing for full annulment is next Tuesday.
Richard: Thank you for your fast help today, my friend.
Lawyer: Take care of your daughter and enjoy your evening.
The lawyer walked out the door into the warm afternoon air.
Richard looked down at his daughter and smiled warmly at her.
Richard: Let's pack up that dirty cleaning bucket right now.
Lily: Can we throw that maid uniform in the trash?
Richard: We are going to throw it away right now.
They walked over to the entryway where the bucket sat idle.
Richard lifted the bucket while Lily carried the wet black cloth.
They carried the items out to the large outdoor waste bins.
Lily tossed the uniform into the bin with a sigh relief.
Lily: That felt so good to throw away, Dad!
Richard: Now let's go get your favorite pizza for dinner.
Lily: Can we order double cheese pizza tonight, please?
Richard: Anything you want, sweetie. Tonight is a fresh start.
They walked back into the bright, warm house arm in arm.
The dark shadows of cruelty were finally gone from their lives.