The crystal chandelier in the grand Dallas mansion vibrated with the force of Victoria’s screamed insult. "SAY GOODBYE!" she roared, her fingers unclenching from the blue blanket high above the marble foyer.

Victoria: "Say goodbye to your little meal ticket, you worthless leech!"

Elena: "No!"

Elena did not think. She did not hesitate. Dropping her mop, the young housemaid lunged across the slick floor, throwing her body forward with absolute desperation.

Elena: "I HAVE YOU!"

The baby’s weight hit her arms with a terrifying force, knocking the breath straight from Elena’s lungs. She scrambled backward on her knees, clutching the crying infant tightly against her chest while her own tears blurred the pristine floor. Above her, the wealthy stepmother stared down in cold, utter disbelief.

Victoria: "You stupid girl! You were supposed to let it fall!"

Elena: "Are you insane?! He’s just a baby! He’s innocent!"

Victoria: "He is a threat to my entire inheritance! And now you’re going to pay for interfering!"

Victoria charged down the sweeping mahogany staircase, her high heels clicking loudly against the steps like rapid gunfire. Her expensive red designer dress swished aggressively as she pointed a manicured finger right at Elena’s face.

Victoria: "GIVE THAT CHILD BACK! YOU ARE NOTHING BUT TRASH!"

Elena: "Stay away from him! I’ll die before I let you touch him again!"

Victoria: "You think anyone will take the word of a minimum-wage maid over mine? Hand him over right now or I will make sure you spend the rest of your life in prison for kidnapping!"

Elena backed into the corner near the heavy mahogany front doors, her body trembling uncontrollably as she shielded the infant. But just as Victoria raised her hand to strike, the massive double doors slammed open, and a powerful shadow stretched across the marble floor.