The bright morning light poured into the pristine living room, illuminating the white marble floors and modern artwork. Margarethe stood near the center of the room, holding a heavy stainless steel kettle. Billowing steam rose from its spout, filling the quiet space with a soft, ominous hiss. Just inches below the kettle rested a plush white swivel chair where baby Leo lay fast asleep, completely unaware of the sweltering threat suspended above his tiny face.

Margarethe tipped the kettle slightly forward, her hands steady, her expression completely detached. The scolding vapor drifted downward toward the infant's delicate skin. Suddenly, the silence was shattered by the frantic sound of footsteps sprinting down the hardwood hallway.

Nunn: GET AWAY FROM THAT BABY!

Nunn, the family maid, burst through the doorway, her eyes wide with terror. She threw her body forward, shoving past Margarethe with everything she had, and snatched the baby up into her arms just as a droplet of scalding water hit the plush cushion.

Margarethe: What do you think you're doing, you idiot?!

Nunn: I know what I saw! Are you out of your mind?!

The sudden screaming woke the infant, whose pierced cries echoed off the tall walls. Before Nunn could back away toward the hallway, heavy steps approached the entrance. Arthur, dressed in his dark blue velvet tuxedo jacket, froze in the doorway, staring at the chaotic scene unfolding before him.

Arthur: What is going on in here?! Why is the baby screaming like that?

Margarethe: Arthur! Thank God you're here! Look at her!

Margarethe pointed an accusing finger at Nunn, her voice trembling with fabricated panic. She took a swift step toward Nunn, reaching out as if to seize the child.

Margarethe: She was going to burn him! I caught her holding a boiling kettle right over his face!

Arthur: DON'T TOUCH HER!

Arthur stepped in violently, grabbing Margarethe's arm and shoving her back before she could lay a hand on Nunn. His breath caught in his throat as he looked between his distraught maid and his hysterical fiancee. But Nunn did not back down. Instead of retreating, Nunn reached into her apron pocket and pulled out a sleek smartphone.

Nunn: I have proof, Mr. Vance. Look at the screen.

Margarethe: DELETE THAT! Right now!

Arthur: Shut up, Margarethe! Nunn, show me.

Arthur stared at the phone screen as the video played, his face turning pale before settling into a cold, terrifying fury. The truth was about to tear their lavish life completely apart.