David walked down the long white hallway while hiding behind the wide marble pillars.
He saw Victoria standing over young Maya with a harsh expression on her face.
Victoria held Maya by her arm while pulling her toward the back storage room.
Victoria: Stop crying right now, Maya! You are not going to ruin my plans today!
Maya: Please, Victoria! I did my homework and kept my room clean like you asked!
Victoria: You spoke back to me during breakfast, and that means you get no dinner tonight!
Maya wiped tears from her red cheeks while trying to pull back her small hand.
Maya: I want my daddy! Please call my daddy!
Victoria: Your daddy is miles away in another city, and he believes every word I tell him!
Victoria laughed cold words that made David's hands turn into tight fists.
Victoria: He thinks I am an angel, so he will never believe a child like you!
David could barely contain his anger as he listened from behind the pillar.
He realized that his daughter had been living in fear for months while he was working.
Victoria pulled Maya faster toward the dark storage area near the back garden entrance.
Victoria: You need discipline, and you are going to stay locked in here until morning!
Maya: No! Please don't lock the door! It is dark in there!
Victoria: Keep walking! You are going to learn who rules this house from now on!
David signaled his two head security guards who were standing outside the main entrance.
The heavy double doors slammed open as David stepped into the center of the hall.
The loud sound echoed off the polished marble floors and high white ceilings.
Victoria stopped in her tracks and turned her head around in shock.
Her cruel expression turned pale for a second before she tried to cover it up.
Maya looked up with wide eyes full of hope as she recognized her father's voice.
Maya: Daddy! Daddy, you came back!
David rushed down the long corridor with quick and steady steps.
His face showed pure anger and heartbreak as he approached his wife.
David: What is happening here right now, Victoria?!
Victoria quickly adjusted her dark dress and tried to put on a fake smile.
Victoria: Oh, David darling! You came home earlier than expected from your trip!
David: Answer my question! Why are you pulling my daughter like that?!
Victoria smirked arrogantly while holding onto Maya's wrist tightly.
Victoria: You're late, David... I am simply managing your spoiled child for you.