Elena moved faster than she had ever moved in her life.
She ignored the sharp pain in her knee as she dove forward.
Toby was tumbling dangerously fast toward the hard marble landing.
Elena threw her arms out wide to catch him.
She slid across the smooth floor, wrapping her arms around his small frame.
The impact knocked the breath straight out of her chest.
They slid several feet along the floor before coming to a stop.
Toby was trembling violently against her chest, sobbing uncontrollably.
Elena held him tight, checking his arms and head for any injuries.
Aside from a few minor scrapes, the boy was safe in her arms.
She looked up toward the top of the grand staircase.
Victoria was standing there, looking down with a cold and indifferent stare.
She smoothed her white dress with complete calm.
She did not run down to check on the boy.
She slowly walked down the steps, her heels clicking rhythmically.
Victoria: Accidents happen so easily in big houses.
Her voice was flat and entirely devoid of any warmth or concern.
Elena felt a surge of pure anger rising up from deep inside her heart.
She carefully stood up while keeping Toby tucked behind her back.
The maid stepped forward to confront the woman in white.
Her hands were shaking, but her voice was steady and loud.
Elena: That was no accident and you know it!
Victoria: Watch your tone with me, Elena.
Victoria: You are just a maid who can be replaced by tonight.
Elena could not control her outrage any longer.
She raised her hand and delivered a hard, sharp slap across Victoria's face.
The sound echoed like a gunshot through the massive foyer.
Victoria stumbled back against the grand staircase railing, clutching her cheek.
Her blue eyes widened in absolute shock and disbelief.
She stared at Elena as if she had lost her mind.
Elena: Don't you ever dare to touch him again!
Victoria reached out to strike back, her face red with rage.
Before she could act, the heavy wooden front doors swung open.
The cold morning wind rushed into the wide entrance hall.