An hour passed as peace returned to the grand estate.
Elena finished tidying the lower landing of the marble staircase.
She carried a fresh tray of warm tea into the bright living area.
Elena: Here is some warm tea for you, Mr. Vance.
Mark: Thank you so much, Elena.
Mark sat on the plush sofa while his baby son napped nearby.
The house felt quieter and lighter than it had in months.
Mark: I want to raise your salary starting this week.
Elena paused in surprise and looked at him with wide eyes.
Elena: Sir, that is not necessary at all.
Elena: I was only doing my job to protect the child.
Mark: You protected my son and spoke the truth under pressure.
Mark: That kind of loyalty is priceless to our family.
Elena smiled warmly and nodded her head in gratitude.
Elena: Thank you very much, Mr. Vance.
Mark looked back at his smartphone sitting on the table.
The camera system continued to record the peaceful entrance hall.
He knew that standing up to toxic family members was difficult.
But protecting the innocent people in his life mattered far more.
Mark: We are going to have a strict guest policy from now on.
Elena: That sounds like a wise decision, sir.
The baby stirred softly in his crib and let out a happy coo.
Mark smiled as he reached down to hold his small hand.
Justice had prevailed in his home through cold hard evidence.
The grand foyer was once again a place of safety and warmth.