The annual charity gala at the Sterling Estate was always the most talked about party of the season.
Crystal chandeliers hung high above the marble floors of the main ballroom.
Rich business owners and local politicians chatted while drinking expensive champagne.
Lily adjusted her sparkling gown as she walked through the arched hallway.
She was only nineteen years old and felt nervous around such wealthy people.
Her older sister Claire walked closely beside her to offer quiet support.
Claire wore a tailored grey suit that made her look strong and professional.
Their father had passed away two years ago after a long illness.
Since his passing, their stepmother Brenda had taken total control of the estate.
Brenda treated Lily like an unwelcome guest in her own family home.
Claire had worked night and day as a legal assistant to protect Lily.
She knew Brenda was hiding important financial documents regarding their father's will.
Tonight was supposed to be a quiet public appearance for both sisters.
They only wanted to respect their late father's memory at the gala.
Lily: Do you think anyone here remembers Dad?
Claire: Many people do, sweetie.
Lily: Brenda acts like he never existed.
Claire: She wants us to feel small and weak.
Lily: I just want tonight to end smoothly.
Claire: Stay close to me and do not worry about her.
Brenda stepped out of the crowd wearing a dramatic leopard print dress.
She held a glass of white wine and glared at the two sisters.
Her rich friends laughed beside her as she approached with a cold smile.
Brenda always enjoyed making Lily feel inferior in public situations.
Brenda: Look who decided to show up looking like cheap decor.
Claire: Keep walking, Brenda.
Brenda: You have no authority in this house anymore, Claire.
Claire: We are here to honor our father's legacy.
Brenda: His legacy belongs entirely to me now.
Lily lowered her eyes and stepped behind her older sister.
She could feel the cold stares of the wealthy guests surrounding them.
Claire squeezed Lily's hand gently to reassure her.
The music played softly as waiters carried trays of delicious appetizers.
Brenda turned her back and whispered something cruel to her close companion.
The two older women chuckled loudly while looking back at Lily.
Claire felt a strong urge to confront Brenda right then and there.
However, she knew making a scene early would ruin their plan.
She needed to stay calm and focused on finding the truth.
They moved toward the grand staircase near the main entrance lobby.
The evening was just beginning, but tension filled the high ceilings.