Brenda backed away from the guards, her eyes darting frantically around the vast foyer.
Brenda: You cannot treat me like a common criminal in my own house!
Richard: This was never your house, Brenda, it was built on love, not lies.
Marcus: Please walk to the gate peacefully, or we will involve local law enforcement.
Brenda: Fine! Keep your stupid house and your miserable life!
Brenda grabbed her designer purse and stomped toward the large open double front doors.
She paused at the threshold, turning back to cast one final glare at Richard.
Brenda: You will regret choosing that little girl over your own wife!
Richard: I will protect my daughter against anyone, especially a snake like you.
Marcus closed the heavy front doors firmly behind Brenda, locking the silver latch inside.
The loud click of the lock resonated through the quiet marble halls of the home.
Richard took a deep, long breath, feeling the heavy tension finally begin to leave his body.
He walked over to the sitting room where Maria was comforting little Lily on the sofa.
Lily looked up with wide, tear-filled eyes, reaching her small arms out toward her father.
Lily: Is she gone forever, Daddy?
Richard sat down beside her, pulling her into a warm, strong, protective embrace.
Richard: Yes, honey, she is gone and she will never hurt you again.
Lily: I was so scared when she pulled my arm on the stairs.
Richard: I know, sweetie, but I will always be right here to catch you.
Maria brought over a warm cup of sweet chamomile tea for the little girl.
Maria: She is safe now, sir, I will stay with her all evening.
Richard: Thank you, Maria, you are true family to us.
Richard kissed Lily's forehead softly, holding her close until her fast breathing slowed down.
He looked at the framed family photo of his late wife sitting on the side table.
He promised quietly in his heart that no evil person would ever enter their home again.