The morning sun poured through the massive crystal windows of the Wilmossen family estate.
Arthur Wilmossen stood near the grand marble staircase while adjusting his dark silk tie.
He was a powerful business owner who built a vast empire through relentless hard work.
His young son Leo played quietly on the plush carpet with a wooden toy train.
Leo was only seven years old and possessed a gentle heart that brightened the massive house.
Ever since Leo lost his biological mother two years ago, the house felt far too quiet.
That quietness changed when Arthur married Victoria, a glamorous woman from an influential local family.
Victoria smiled warmly whenever Arthur was watching her from across the room.
However, her pleasant warm smile vanished the moment Arthur left for his corporate office.
Clara, the housemaid who worked there for five years, saw the cold reality every single day.
Clara cared deeply for young Leo and always kept a watchful eye over him.
She noticed how Victoria spoke harshly to Leo whenever they were completely alone.
Victoria viewed little Leo as an annoying obstacle to securing full control over the family trust fund.
If Leo remained the primary heir, Victoria would never control the massive inheritance money.
Clara dusted the antique sideboards while listening to Victoria's high heels click against the floor.
Victoria glared down at little Leo as he pushed his toy train along the hallway carpet.
"Pick up those stupid toys right now," Victoria snapped in a harsh whisper.
Leo flinched softly and began gathering his small wooden toys into his hands.
"I'm sorry, Victoria," Leo murmured softly while looking down at the marble floor.
"Don't call me by my first name, you little brat," she gritted through her teeth.
Clara stepped forward with a dusting cloth, keeping her voice completely polite and calm.
"I can clear those toys away for young Leo, Mrs. Wilmossen," Clara offered gently.
Victoria turned her sharp green eyes toward Clara with total condescension and contempt.
"Focus on your low-level chores, Clara, and keep your nose out of my family business," Victoria sneered.
Arthur walked down the marble steps carrying his leather briefcase under his arm.
Victoria instantly transformed her tight angry frown into a breathtaking, loving smile.
"Have a wonderful day at the office, my love," Victoria said while kissing Arthur's cheek.
"Thank you, darling," Arthur replied softly before turning his attention toward his small son.
"Be a good boy for Victoria today, Leo," Arthur added with a warm fatherly smile.
Leo nodded quietly, though his little fingers tightened nervously around his small toy train.
Arthur exited through the heavy oak double doors, completely unaware of the growing danger inside.