The crystal chandeliers inside the grand Dallas mansion reflected off polished marble floors. Guests dressed in tailored tuxedos and designer gowns sipped vintage champagne. Near the sweeping staircase, Victoria smoothed the satin of her red gown, her eyes scanning the room. Everything was supposed to be perfect for her engagement announcement. Then she saw Elena walking fast down the hallway, carrying a stack of delicate dinner linens toward the dining hall.

Victoria cut across the hallway, her high heels clicking loudly against the hardwood. She stepped directly into Elena's path, her chin held high.

Victoria: Watch where you are walking. You almost stepped on my gown.

Elena: I am sorry, Miss Victoria. I was just trying to hurry to the dining room.

Victoria: Your place is in the kitchen, not wandering around where important guests are trying to celebrate.

Elena lowered her head, holding the folded napkins tighter against her chest. She stepped to the side, but Victoria shifted again, blocking the narrow corridor completely. Victoria took a deliberate step forward, crowding Elena against the antique side table.

Victoria: Look at me when I am speaking to you. You carry yourself like you own this place.

Elena: I am only doing my job, ma'am. Please let me pass.

Victoria: Your job is to stay out of sight. My family pays you to serve, not to make eye contact with our guests.

Victoria raised her hand and shoved Elena’s shoulder hard enough to knock the linens from her grip. White cloth scattered across the dark floor. Elena’s face flushed red, but she did not drop her gaze this time. Instead of stepping back, Elena reached out with sudden, rigid precision and gripped Victoria’s wrist firmly.

Victoria: LET GO OF ME!

Elena: PLEASE. DON'T MAKE ME CAUSE A SCENE.

The sharp exchange echoed into the main foyer. High heels clicked rapidly behind them as Harrison rounded the corner, his black tuxedo crisp, his eyes wide with disbelief as he saw the maid holding his bride-to-be.

Harrison: STOP! HEY!

Elena did not release Victoria’s arm immediately. Instead, she raised her hand, turning her palm inward. Shimmering under the warm wall sconce, a detailed gold family crest signet ring caught the light on her finger. Harrison froze instantly, his breath hitching as his eyes locked onto the ancient heavy ring.