The crystal chandeliers of the Sterling estate cast a bright, golden light across the grand dining room.
Julian: Sit down and shut your mouth!
Lily: I... I just wanted some water, sir.
Julian: I didn't give you permission to speak!
Eight-year-old Lily shrank back in her chair, her small hands trembling as she clutched her cloth napkin. The wealthy guests at the formal dinner table lowered their silver forks, watching in tense silence.
Julian: You're a worthless, sloppy little brat!
Julian stood up, his navy suit sharp, his face twisted in unbridled rage. Before anyone could move, he brought his hand around with full force.
The heavy slap echoed across the marble walls like a gunshot.
Lily screamed as the blow knocked her straight out of her chair. She hit the polished floor with a loud thud, weeping as she clutched her burning, crimson cheek.
Julian: Get off my floor before I have you thrown into the street!
A maid in a crisp grey uniform burst through the double doors, her shoes skidding across the marble as she dropped straight to her knees.
Emma: Lily! Oh God, baby, look at me!
Emma scooped the crying child into her arms, pulling her tight against her chest as the little girl sobbed uncontrollably into her neck.
Julian froze, his hand still hovering in the air. His jaw dropped as his eyes fixed on the maid's face.
Julian: Emma... you?
Emma lifted her head. Her eyes burned with fierce rage, tears streaming down her pale skin as she glared directly up at the powerful CEO.
Emma: She is my daughter!