Mark was sitting in a heated board meeting across the city district.
His phone vibrated softly against the smooth mahogany table surface.
He usually ignored calls during important corporate business meetings.
However, he saw Clara's name flash repeatedly across the screen.
He excused himself calmly and walked into the quiet outer hallway.
He answered the phone, sensing something was deeply wrong at home.
Clara was sobbing so hard that her voice sounded barely recognizable.
She begged him to return to the estate without losing a moment.
Mark felt a cold wave of panic wash over his chest instantly.
He asked about his baby boy, his heart beating like a drum.
Clara stammered that Leo was crying and needed his father right away.
Mark hung up the phone and grabbed his dark tailored suit jacket.
He bypassed his driver and took the keys to his fast sports car.
He sped through the city traffic, ignoring the bright afternoon sun.
His mind raced with terrifying questions about what was happening inside.
He had trusted Victoria to cherish their young son with total devotion.
Now he wondered if he had been blind to her real personality.
Meanwhile, back at the estate, Victoria paced through the grand living area.
She was angry that Clara had dared to stand up to her.
She threatened to fire the maid without giving her any final pay.
Clara stayed near the baby, protecting him with her own body.
She wiped the tiny baby's tears and whispered sweet, soothing words.
The child clung tightly to Clara's navy blue cotton uniform apron.
Victoria yelled at Clara to clear out her small staff bedroom.
Clara held her ground, listening eagerly for the sound of tires outside.
Suddenly, the heavy front doors unlocked with a loud, ringing click.
Mark burst inside the house, his face pale and full of worry.