Chapter 1 of 6
Woman Pushes Poor Girl Out Until Secret Deed Is Revealed
The Shove in the Hall
The Grand Crest Hotel stood as the ultimate symbol of wealth and high social status in the center of the city. Its polished oak floors reflected the crystal chandeliers hanging high above, and white crown molding trimmed every wall. Victoria Sterling walked through the hallway as if the ground itself was lucky to touch her shoes. She had run the property for five years after her father fell ill, treating the staff like servants and visitors like unwanted guests. On this bright Tuesday afternoon, Victoria noticed a young woman standing near the framed flag in the main hall. The girl wore a faded denim jacket, dark blue jeans, and old white sneakers that looked completely out of place in such an expensive building. Victoria felt an instant wave of deep anger rise in her chest.
Victoria: Why is someone like you standing in my grand hall?
Chloe: I am waiting to speak with the general manager about the estate records.
Victoria: You do not belong here, you dirty beggar!
Before the young girl could answer, Victoria stepped forward with high heels clicking loudly against the oak floor. She raised both hands and shoved the girl with all her strength. Chloe gasped as her feet slipped, sending her crashing down onto the hard surface. The sound of her fall echoed through the vast hall, causing two front desk clerks to stop their work and stare in total surprise. Victoria stood tall over the fallen girl, smoothing down her designer dress with cold satisfaction. She sneered down at Chloe, looking at the minor freckles across her nose and her worn jacket. Victoria truly believed that money gave her the right to crush anyone who stepped into her path without permission.
Victoria: Get up and leave before I call the police on you!
Chloe: You had no right to lay your hands on me.
Victoria: I own this place, so I have every right!
Chloe looked up from the floor, her dark eyes filled with absolute determination instead of tears. She felt a sharp sting in her left palm where it had hit the floor, but she refused to let Victoria see her pain. Slowing her breathing, Chloe planted her hands firmly on the hardwood and pushed herself back up to her feet. She straightened her jacket and adjusted her small canvas shoulder bag. The tension in the air was so thick that the nearby staff members held their breath. Victoria stepped back slightly, surprised by how steady the young girl remained despite the harsh treatment. Chloe took a deep breath, fixed her glare directly on Victoria, and reached inside her shoulder bag with purpose.