The private study was dead silent except for the hum of the high-definition monitor resting on the mahogany desk. Richard stood behind his chair with his arms crossed, his jaw clenched so tightly a muscle twitched near his temple. Victoria paced nervously near the bookshelf, her designer heels clicking against the Persian rug with irritating rhythm. Clara sat quietly on the edge of the leather sofa, her hands wrapped tightly around a warm mug she hadn't touched. Richard pressed play on the remote, and the crisp, flawless video footage of the pool deck began to roll on the screen. The angle showed the stroller rolling slowly down the slight slope toward the deep end of the swimming pool. Then the video clearly captured Victoria stepping out from the side door, giving the stroller a deliberate shove before retreating inside.
Richard: You told me she pushed him, Victoria. The video says otherwise.
Victoria stopped pacing instantly, forcing an unconvincing laugh as she tossed her hair over her shoulder.
Victoria: The camera angle is distorted, Richard! Anyone can manipulate digital video files nowadays!
Clara stood up from the sofa, her voice shaking with righteous anger as she confronted her employer's stepmother.
Clara: You tried to drown an innocent baby just to frame me and protect your position in the estate!
Victoria's face twisted into an ugly snarl, stepping closer to Clara with a raised hand ready to strike.
Victoria: You filthy little maid! You don't speak to me that way in my own house!
Richard caught Victoria's wrist mid-air with a grip of iron, his eyes flashing with absolute fury.
Victoria: Richard! Let go of me right now! I am your family!
Richard shoved her hand away, his voice dropping into a low, menacing whisper that silenced the entire room.
Richard: My family doesn't try to murder my son. Pack your bags, Victoria. You're leaving tonight.
Victoria gasped, her aristocratic composure completely shattering as she realized her reign over the mansion was over.
Victoria: You're throwing me out for a domestic servant? You'll regret this decision, Richard!
Richard turned his back on her, staring coldly out the large window toward the front gates.
Richard: Security is already waiting outside your door. Don't make them use physical force.
Leave a Comment