Chapter 3: The Edge of Malice
Chapter 3: The Edge of Malice
Elena closed her eyes for a fraction of a second, refusing to take the bait. She knew Clara’s bitterness stemmed from her own failing business ventures and her fading influence over the family’s vast empire. Elena had never wanted a war; she only desired a peaceful, loving environment for her growing family.
"I am going inside. Excuse me," Elena said, maintaining her quiet dignity.
She turned her back on Clara, intending to walk toward the glass doors of the patio.
Clara’s jaw tightened imperceptibly. A sudden, blinding wave of irrational rage washed over her. She glanced quickly around the perimeter. The garden was entirely empty. The estate staff was indoors preparing for the evening, and Arthur had left early to pick up a luxury anniversary gift. Clara thought they were completely, utterly alone. She thought no one would ever see.
Without another thought, rationality abandoned her. Clara lunged forward, extending both arms. With a vicious, calculated force, she shoved her hands violently into the center of Elena's back.
Elena let out a sharp gasp, her balance instantly obliterated. The heavy weight of her third-trimester pregnancy pulled her momentum forward, her bare feet slipping helplessly on the sleek, wet marble of the pool’s edge.
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A massive, violent splash echoed across the manicured garden, violently shattering the serene silence of the morning.
Clara stepped back immediately, smoothing the lapels of her crisp white suit with trembling hands. She stared down at the rippling, turbulent water, a cold, satisfied smirk playing on her lips. She believed she had just solved her biggest problem. She had no idea she had just made a fatal mistake.
