The bright sun beat down on the massive estate in upper California.
Julian sat quietly in his black wheelchair near the deep end of the pool.
He looked at his long legs that had not moved since the terrible car accident two years ago.
His late father had left him a massive inheritance and the entire family estate.
The fortune was set to unlock on his twenty-fifth birthday, which was only three days away.
His young stepmother Victoria stood closely behind his chair in her dark blue dress.
She had married his father just six months before the older man passed away suddenly.
Victoria: You should really enjoy the fresh air today, Julian.
Julian did not turn his head to look at her.
Julian: I prefer to be back inside my bedroom, Victoria.
Victoria: Nonsense, a rich young man needs some sun on his face.
She leaned against the back handles of his heavy wheelchair with a strange smile.
Julian felt a cold shiver run down his spine despite the warm summer heat.
He knew Victoria was upset about his father's sudden final will.
The legal document left her with only a modest monthly allowance from the estate.
If Julian were to pass away before turning twenty-five, the whole trust fund reverted to her.
Julian: Please move me back away from the slippery tiles.
Victoria: You are completely safe with me, my dear stepson.
She pushed the chair a few inches closer to the edge of the water.
The blue surface reflected the large American flag hanging near the mansion entrance.
Several guests were laughing and drinking cocktails on the opposite side of the lawn.
Julian: I am serious, Victoria, back the chair up right now.
Victoria: You always worry far too much about little things.
She adjusted her shiny diamond bracelet with a calm expression.
Her hands slowly tightened on the rubber handles of his heavy chair.
Julian tried to grab the side wheels with his bare fingers.
The brakes had been suddenly unlocked without his knowledge.
Julian: What are you doing with the wheel locks?
Victoria: Oops, my hand must have slipped on the frame.
A sudden nudge sent the front wheels tipping forward over the wet pool edge.
Julian gasped as gravity pulled his body down toward the deep blue water.
The chair tipped violently and splashed straight into the deep end.
Victoria: Oh my God! Somebody, please help!
Her high scream echoed loudly across the manicured estate grounds.
Yet she made no effort to reach out her hand to grab him.