One afternoon, Victoria met with Julian's private family attorney in the study.
She wanted to review the legal documents for the family estate.
The attorney opened a thick folder on the polished desk.
Victoria: I want to see how the inheritance is set up.
Attorney: Mr. Vance placed everything into a secure trust fund.
Victoria: What does that mean for me as his wife?
Attorney: The entire mansion and business belong strictly to Lily.
Victoria felt a surge of sudden anger inside her chest.
She realized she would receive nothing if Julian ever left her.
The entire trust fund was legally locked for young Lily alone.
Victoria returned to her grand bedroom in absolute silence and frustration.
She began to view the small girl as her biggest obstacle.
Later that evening, Victoria brought up the topic during dinner.
Victoria: Julian, we should update your estate papers soon.
Julian: Why would we need to change them right now?
Victoria: As your wife, I should manage the family trust fund.
Julian: The current arrangement protects Lily's future completely.
Victoria: Do you not trust me to manage our family wealth?
Julian: I trust you, but Lily's mother wanted this structure.
Julian stood firm on his decision regarding the legal papers.
He would never alter the trust fund set up for Lily.
Victoria clenched her hands underneath the dining table in bitter anger.
She realized sweet words would not change her husband's mind.
Her attitude toward young Lily grew colder over the following weeks.
She openly snapped at the little girl when Julian was away.
Victoria: Stop running on these polished marble floors!
Lily: I am sorry, Victoria. I was looking for Daddy.
Victoria: Your father is busy working to pay for this house.
Lily retreated quietly to her bedroom near the upper hall.
She held her small teddy bear tightly against her chest.
The housekeeper noticed Victoria's harsh tone toward the young child.
She decided to keep a close eye on the stepmother.
Housekeeper: Please be gentle with little Lily, ma'am.
Victoria: Mind your own business and clean the kitchen.
Victoria began thinking of ways to push Lily out of the picture.
Her greed made her blind to right and wrong behavior.
She believed she deserved all the wealth for herself alone.
A dangerous plan began forming inside her selfish mind.