Maia pushed open the heavy double doors completely and stepped directly between Victoria and the crib.
Maia: Please step back and leave her alone right now!
Victoria spun around, her eyes flashing with intense anger at being interrupted by the house staff.
Victoria: Mind your own business and get out of this room immediately!
Maia: I will not let you frighten this child over family disputes!
Maia reached into the crib and picked up little Sophia, holding her securely against her shoulder.
The baby's crying slowed down as Maia gently patted her back with steady, reassuring motions.
Victoria stepped forward aggressively, pointing a finger directly at Maia's face.
Victoria: You are just a maid in this house, and you know entirely too much!
Maia: I know what you have been looking for around this estate, Victoria.
Victoria froze for a moment, her posture stiffening as she processed Maia's calm statement.
Before another word could be spoken, heavy footsteps echoed down the main hallway toward the nursery.
Arthur Vance stepped into the doorway, his tall frame blocking the bright morning light behind him.
He wore a tailored black suit and carried the calm authority of a seasoned corporate executive.
Arthur looked between his wife and the housekeeper, sensing the immense tension filling the room.
Arthur: What is going on in here, and why is Sophia crying?
Victoria immediately changed her tone, putting on an expression of deep concern and distress.
Victoria: Arthur, thank goodness you are home! Maia attacked me when I came in to check on Sophia!