The grandfather clock in the main foyer chimed seven times, its heavy echo ringing off the polished white marble of the Dallas estate. Marcus rested his hand on his seven-year-old daughter Lily’s shoulder as she shifted uncomfortably in her formal dress. Across the pristine grand hall, Diane adjusted her silk suit, her cold eyes tracking every breath the young girl took.

Diane: "Marcus, darling, you really ought to relax. You look exhausted after that long flight from Miami."

Marcus: "I am tired, Diane. But we need to discuss the trust fund documents before the attorneys arrive tomorrow morning."

Diane: "There will be plenty of time for paperwork. First, let me get you something refreshing to drink."

Lily clutched her father’s sleeve tightly, her small fingers digging into the fabric of his coat. She had seen the way her stepmother’s hands trembled near the kitchen counter just moments before, whispering heatedly into her cell phone about bank accounts and swift arrangements. Lily’s chest heaved as she watched Diane pour a dark, greenish herbal mix into a heavy crystal glass, her back turned to the room for just a few seconds.

Marcus: "Lily, sweetie, what’s wrong? You’re shaking."

Lily: "Daddy, don't stay here. I don't like how she looks at us."

Diane: "Oh, hush now, child. You’re just tired from traveling. Here, Marcus, drink this down. It will settle your stomach right away."

Diane walked across the marble floor, a smooth smile plastered across her face as she extended the glowing green drink toward Marcus. He reached out to take it, completely unaware of the deadly chemical mixture swirling inside the glass, meant to end his life and transfer his entire forty-million-dollar estate into his fresh bride’s hands. But before the rim could touch his lips, a sharp, terrified scream shattered the silence of the mansion.