Chapter Two: Every Camera Has a Memory
Forensic technicians secured the home's surveillance system before anyone could access it.
The footage spoke more clearly than any witness.
It showed Victoria stepping directly into Emma's path.
It showed Emma backing away.
It showed Victoria looking toward the camera.
Then...
She shoved Emma with both hands.
Emma lost her balance.
The staircase did the rest.
The video also captured Victoria immediately rehearsing her tears before grabbing the maid.
Detective Harris paused the recording.
"No accident," he said quietly.
The frightened maid finally found her courage.
"Mrs. Victoria told me to stay quiet," she admitted. "She said if I told anyone what I saw, I'd lose my job."
Edward slowly removed his wedding ring.
He looked at his daughter with disappointment rather than anger.
"I taught you better than this."
Victoria's carefully practiced innocence disappeared.
"You don't understand! She was taking everything!"
Emma answered calmly.
"I never wanted your place."
"No," Victoria snapped. "You wanted Father's respect."
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"No," Edward interrupted.
"I gave Emma my respect because she earned it."
