The grand Whiteman estate stood quietly on top of the foggy emerald hill.
Inside the vast halls, seven year old Leo walked softly down the long carpeted hallway.
His small fingers traced the dark mahogany railing as he headed toward the grand staircase.
Ever since his mother passed away two years ago, the house always felt cold.
His father worked long hours in the city to keep the family business alive.
Then came Evelyn, his father's new wife, who brought sharp silence into every room.
Evelyn: Why are you wandering around down here again, Leo?
Leo paused near the top landing and looked up with wide, hesitant eyes.
Leo: I was just looking for my drawing sketchbook, Evelyn.
Evelyn: You leave your useless things everywhere in this mansion.
Her voice sounded like ice cracking under heavy winter footsteps.
She stepped closer to the young boy with a cold, narrow stare.
Evelyn: You do not belong in this family anymore, little boy.
Leo took a quick step backward toward the steep marble stairs.
Leo: My daddy said this will always be my home.
Evelyn: Your daddy is too busy to care about you now.
She reached out her hand toward his small, trembling shoulder.
At that exact moment, maid Sarah turned the corner carrying fresh linens.
Maid Sarah: Step away from the child immediately, Mrs. Whiteman!
Sarah dropped the bundle of towels and ran quickly across the polished floor.
Evelyn pulled her arm back fast, her face twisting in pure surprise.
Evelyn: Mind your own business and do your chores, Sarah!
Maid Sarah: My business is keeping this innocent boy safe from you!
Sarah put her arms around Leo and pulled him safely behind her back.
Leo: She was going to push me down, Sarah!
Maid Sarah: I know, sweetheart, but I have you now.
Evelyn folded her arms and let out a harsh, dry laugh.
Evelyn: Nobody will ever believe the word of a common servant.
Maid Sarah: You forget that God sees everything done in darkness.
Sarah took Leo by the hand and guided him away from the stairs.
Evelyn stood at the top of the staircase, her eyes burning with hatred.
She knew that her carefully hidden plan was starting to crumble completely.
The mansion held many secrets, but this secret was the most dangerous of all.