The Thompson mansion was unusually quiet that afternoon.
Kyra carried several documents toward Ethan's home office while discussing nursery plans over the phone.
She moved carefully.
Every step mattered.
Her pregnancy had entered a delicate stage, and doctors repeatedly warned her to avoid unnecessary stress.
As she approached the grand staircase, she noticed someone standing nearby.
Victoria Reynolds.
A powerful executive who had recently become involved in several family business matters.
Their relationship had never been friendly.
Victoria often viewed Kyra as an obstacle rather than family.
Before Kyra could continue walking, she felt a sudden force against her shoulder.
Everything happened instantly.
Her balance disappeared.
The documents flew from her hands.
She reached for the railing.
Missed.
And fell.
The painful impact echoed through the mansion.
Her scream brought staff members running from every direction.
When Ethan heard the noise, he sprinted from his office.
The sight before him was horrifying.
Kyra lay at the bottom of the staircase, crying and holding her stomach.
Fear filled his chest.
Not for himself.
For their child.