Elena wiped down the grand wooden railing near the staircase of the vast mansion.
She kept a close eye on young Leo as he played quietly on the soft rug.
The fourteen-month-old toddler was the only joy left in this gigantic, quiet house.
His father Dominic was a wealthy business owner who worked long hours away from home.
Since the passing of Dominic's first wife, the mansion felt cold and empty.
That was until Victoria moved into the master bedroom six months ago as Dominic's new fiancée.
Victoria always presented herself as a sweet and caring woman whenever Dominic was present.
She wore high-end clothes and spoke in a gentle, polished tone around her future husband.
However, the moment Dominic left for the city, her entire attitude shifted instantly.
Elena had noticed the harsh glares Victoria directed at the innocent toddler.
Victoria: Stop making that annoying noise right now, you brat!
Victoria shouted as she walked into the brightly lit foyer wearing a light blue dress.
Leo startled at the loud sound and dropped his small wooden toy onto the marble floor.
Elena: He was just playing softly, Miss Victoria.
Victoria: Did I ask for your input, Elena?
Victoria walked toward the child with a look of pure disgust on her face.
Victoria: This child is constantly in my way and ruining my quiet morning!
She reached down aggressively and grabbed the toddler by his small arm to drag him away.
Leo burst into loud tears as his tiny legs wobbled on the smooth floor.
Elena dropped her cleaning cloth immediately and rushed across the giant room.
Elena: Please stop, you're hurting him!
Victoria: Get back to your work before I have you fired today!
Elena ignored the threat and knelt down directly beside the screaming child.
She carefully gathered Leo into her arms and pulled him safely against her chest.
Elena: He's only fourteen months old, you cruel woman!
Victoria gasped at the maid's sudden defiance and stomped her foot against the floor.
Victoria: How dare a maid speak to me in that tone!
Elena: I will protect this boy no matter what happens to my job!
Victoria raised her hand in anger and pointed a sharp finger directly at Elena's face.
Victoria: You will be on the street before the sun sets today!
Elena stood her ground while holding the crying toddler securely against her shoulder.
She could feel the child trembling from the sudden panic Victoria had caused.
Elena: Dominic will hear about how you treat his only son!
Victoria: Dominic believes every word I say over a common servant!
Victoria laughed coldly as she stepped closer to challenge the brave maid.
The heavy silence of the foyer was broken only by the child's soft sobs.
Elena knew that standing up to Victoria would carry heavy consequences for her career.
Yet she refused to bow down to a woman who mistreated a defenseless baby.