Chapter 1 - The Trap in the Grand Hall
The heavy diamond necklace hung from my mother's manicured fingers, sparkling under the crystal chandeliers of the foyer like a drop of frozen poison. My mother, Victoria Moretti, looked down at Elena with cold disdain, her emerald gown rustling as she stepped closer.
""She’s a thief, Adrian,"" Victoria declared, her voice filled with practiced outrage. ""I found Clara's diamond pendant tucked right inside the lining of her coat in the staff room. She took advantage of your grief and targeted your late wife's most precious heirloom.""
Elena remained kneeling on the marble floor near the foot of the grand staircase. Her hands were trembling, but she didn't weep or beg. She held tiny Sofia close to her chest, shielding my daughter from the harsh glares of six armed security guards surrounding them.
Sofia, holding her small walker with one hand, looked up at Elena with tear-filled eyes. ""Elena... didn't steal..."" the little girl whimpered softly.
My mother sneered. ""The child is confused. Guards, take this woman out to the courtyard until the police arrive.""
""Stop,"" I commanded, stepping forward. The temperature in the room dropped instantly.
My mother’s eyes widened slightly in surprise. ""Adrian! You can't possibly defend a common housemaid over your own mother!""
Before I could reply, tiny footsteps patted against the top of the marble stairs.
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Lily, holding her worn stuffed rabbit by its ear, stood at the railing. She pointed her small finger directly at my mother.
""Grandma put it there,"" Lily repeated in a clear, ringing voice that echoed off the high ceilings. ""I saw Grandma take the shiny necklace from Mommy's safe while Elena was helping Sofia stand up. Grandma put it in Elena's coat.""
