The grand estate stood like a silver monument under the harsh afternoon sun.
Inside the vast foyer, white marble floors reflected the sparkling light of the crystal chandelier.
Seven-year-old Julian ran down the hallway, clutching a small wooden toy train in his hands.
His mother had passed away two years ago, leaving him alone with his wealthy father, Arthur.
Arthur was the Chief Executive Officer of Vance Enterprises, a multi-billion dollar shipping empire.
Although Arthur loved his son deeply, his demanding business schedule kept him away from home for long stretches.
Six months ago, Arthur had married Victoria, a glamorous former model who wore expensive blue sequin dresses.
Victoria pretended to be a loving stepmother whenever Arthur was present in the house.
However, the moment Arthur left for his boardroom meetings, Victoria showed her true cold nature.
She viewed little Julian as an obstacle standing between her and the full inheritance of the estate.
On this clear Tuesday afternoon, Arthur was returning home early from his international corporate flight.
Victoria had received a text message from Arthur's chauffeur saying the CEO was entering the private gates.
She immediately walked down the upper corridor, her high heels clicking sharply against the polished floor.
Julian was playing quietly near the grand white staircase, completely unaware of her approaching footsteps.
Victoria adjusted her sparkling blue dress and looked down at the vulnerable boy with cold eyes.
She intentionally dropped a smooth glass marble onto the polished top step right in front of Julian.
The young boy stepped forward, lost his balance, and slipped down several marble steps with a loud crash.
He tumbled painfully onto the bottom landing, his toy train flying across the smooth white floor.
Julian clutched his bruised elbow and began to cry from the sudden shock and fear.
Victoria remained at the top of the stairs, a cruel smile fading quickly from her face.
She quickly composed herself, forcing a look of panic onto her features as she feigned alarm.
Old Martha, the head housekeeper who had served the family for thirty years, rushed from the kitchen.
Martha dropped her cleaning cloth and dropped to her knees beside the crying boy immediately.
Martha: Oh, my sweet boy, are you alright?
Julian: My arm hurts so bad, Martha!
Martha: Shh, stay still, let me look at you.
Victoria: Get away from him, Martha, you are making things worse!
Martha: I will never leave this child unattended, ma'am.
Victoria: I am the mistress of this house, so obey me!
The heavy mahogany entrance doors opened wide before Martha could answer the sharp order.
Arthur stepped into the grand foyer, flanked by two towering corporate security guards in black suits.