The grand hall of the Vance mansion was quiet during the cold afternoon hours.
Eight-year-old Lily sat on the carpet near the front entryway.
Her small hands held a stained cloth against a shiny black heel.
She rubbed the leather with all the strength in her thin arms.
Victoria: You missed a spot near the strap, little girl.
Victoria stood over her with her arms crossed across her chest.
Her silk dress rustled lightly as she took a slow step forward.
Lily: My hands hurt, Victoria.
Victoria: I do not care if your little hands hurt.
Victoria stared down at the child with a harsh look in her eyes.
She had moved into the estate six months ago after meeting Julian.
Julian was a wealthy American CEO who trusted her deeply.
He believed Victoria loved his young daughter like her own child.
Victoria: Polish faster or you will not get any dinner tonight.
Lily: Daddy said I don't have to clean shoes.
Victoria: Your daddy is not here to protect you right now.
Victoria snatched the heel out of Lily's trembling hands.
She inspected the black leather with a cold sneer on her face.
Victoria: Look at these smudge marks on my expensive Italian shoes!
Lily: I tried to make it shiny like you asked.
Victoria: You are just as useless as your mother was!
Victoria slammed the heavy shoe rack against the wooden wall.
The loud crash made Lily jump back in sudden terror.
She fell back onto the thick rug with a soft gasp.
Victoria: Get back on your knees and finish the job!
Lily: Please, I just want to go to my room.
Victoria: You will stay right here until every pair is done.
Lily squeezed her eyes shut as tears rolled down her soot-stained cheeks.
She missed her father more than anything in the world right now.
Julian had gone to a business conference across the state line.
He was not supposed to be home until late tomorrow evening.
Victoria knew the staff was busy in the back kitchen area.
She took total advantage of the empty front hallway today.
Victoria: A servant's child belongs on her knees polishing leather.
Lily: I am not a servant!
Victoria: In this house, you do what I say!
Victoria pointed a long polished fingernail toward the messy carpet floor.
Lily reached out her small hand for the dirty cleaning rag again.
Her heart pounded fast as she heard heavy footsteps approaching outside.