High above the foyer, the sound of sharp high heels began to click steadily on the marble steps.
Vivian walked down the curved staircase holding a glass of expensive red wine in her right hand.
She wore a dark velvet gown and looked down at the couple with a cold, mocking smile.
Vivian: She was here all along, Julian, right where a penniless girl truly belongs.
Julian turned toward the stairs with pure rage burning inside his chest as he held his wife.
Julian: You told me she took my money and fled the country three months ago!
Vivian: I told you a story that suited the reputation of this wealthy family estate.
Vivian took a slow sip of her red wine and leaned casually against the polished wooden handrail.
She had married Julian's father years ago and had slowly taken control over the house operations.
When Julian's father passed away, she assumed total authority over the staff and the monthly budget.
She had always hated Elena because Elena came from a humble background without a rich inheritance.
Vivian: Your silly little wife thought she could inherit a piece of our mortgage firm.
Elena: I never wanted your money, Vivian, I only wanted to live in peace with my husband!
Vivian: Keep your tongue quiet while you are wearing that maid uniform in my house!
Julian stepped between his stepmother and Elena, shielding his crying wife behind his broad back.
He glared up at the stairs, feeling the full weight of the cruel deception that took place.
Julian: You turned my wife into a servant inside my own home while I was overseas!
Vivian: I saved this family from embarrassment by taking away her foolish legal illusions.
Arthur, the stern family lawyer, shifted his weight nervously near the massive carved wooden front door.
He held a thick leather briefcase under his arm and avoided looking at Julian's furious expression.
Julian: Arthur, did you know about this illegal abuse happening inside this house?
Arthur: I only follow the legal instructions provided by the executor of the primary estate, sir.
Julian: My father made me the co-executor of the entire estate before he passed away last year!
Vivian laughed softly, the sound ringing out coldly through the high ceilings of the empty foyer.
Vivian: You were away, my dear boy, and signatures can be easily adjusted when necessary.