Victoria stood over the small child, her face twisted in genuine irritation.
She blamed the baby for taking away the full attention of her wealthy husband.
Victoria: Look at what this careless baby did!
The infant began to cry loudly, terrified by the harsh tone echoing around him.
Elena could no longer stand back in silence while a defenseless child cried out.
She dropped her cleaning supplies onto the floor and rushed forward into the foyer.
Her heart beat wildly against her ribs as she crossed the cold marble floor.
Elena: Please, stop hurting the child!
Elena grabbed Victoria's sleeve desperately, attempting to pull her away from the baby.
Victoria turned around sharply, her eyes burning with instant rage at the maid's nerve.
Victoria: How dare you lay your hands on me in my own luxury home!
She shoved Elena backward, causing the tired maid to stumble against the wooden wall.
Elena touched her bruised eye, remembering how Victoria had struck her days ago.
The wealthy woman had threatened to ruin Elena's life if she ever spoke a word.
Victoria: You are just a hired maid, and nobody will ever take your word over mine!
The baby continued to sob softly on the floor, shivering from the cold drafts.
Victoria stepped closer to Elena, her voice dropping into a dangerous, icy whisper.
Victoria: My husband trusts me with his entire life, his trust fund, and his business.
Victoria: If you say anything, I will make sure you end up on the streets tonight.
Elena looked at the innocent baby lying on the white floor near the entrance.
She knew that keeping her job was important, but protecting the child mattered more.
She adjusted her grey uniform and stood her ground, refusing to back away again.
Elena: The master will find out what kind of person you really are inside.
Victoria laughed softly, a bitter sound that carried no real warmth or joy.
Victoria: He is already on a plane to New York, and you have no proof at all.
Suddenly, the sound of heavy vehicle tires echoed from the long driveway outside.
A sleek black car pulled up to the main front entrance of the mansion.
Elena felt a sudden surge of hope flood through her tired, bruised body.
She turned her gaze toward the massive double doors of the Dallas house.