Clara stood quietly on the second-floor balcony of her family's vast mansion in suburban Connecticut.
The air felt unusually cold despite the warm summer sun shining brightly through the sky.
She had lived in this house since her father passed away two long years ago.
Her father left his entire estate and life insurance policy directly to her in his will.
That decision created severe tension between Clara and her ambitious stepmother Evelyn.
Evelyn always believed her own biological son deserved the entire family fortune.
Clara adjusted the belt of her soft satin robe as she looked down at the main foyer.
The polished white marble floors below sparkled under the large crystal chandelier.
Suddenly, Clara heard rapid, heavy footsteps approaching her from behind.
She turned her head slightly to see who was walking toward her so fast.
Evelyn was marching forward with a furious look in her cold eyes.
Evelyn: You think you own this family now, don't you?
Clara: I just want to keep my father's memory alive, Evelyn.
Evelyn: You took what belonged to my son, and I will not allow it anymore!
Before Clara could react, Evelyn lunged forward and shoved Clara with all her strength.
Clara lost her balance instantly and tumbled straight back over the low wooden railing.
A loud, terrified scream echoed throughout the high ceilings of the empty mansion.
Clara felt the terrifying rush of wind as she fell through the open space toward the floor.
She closed her eyes tightly and prepared herself for the devastating impact below.