She saw Vanessa’s smile vanish the moment Arthur left the room.
She saw her wipe her hand against her silk dress after touching Leo.
She saw the look of disgust directed at the wheelchair—as if it were a piece of outdated furniture ruining the décor.
Two weeks earlier, the mask had cracked.
Leo tried to pour himself a glass of water, not wanting to bother anyone. The pitcher slipped, spilling water across the Persian rug. Arthur was on a video call.
Vanessa looked up from her phone, her beauty hardening into something cold.
“You can’t do anything right, can you?” she hissed.
“You’re a burden. A useless little burden.”
Leo shrank into his wheelchair.
Helen nearly rushed in—but at that exact moment, Arthur ended his call and walked in. Vanessa transformed instantly.
“Oh sweetheart, it was just an accident!” she cooed. “Helen, could you grab a towel?”
Arthur smiled at her with gratitude. Helen stayed silent. She knew if she spoke, Arthur would think she was a jealous old employee who couldn’t accept change.
And then Leo would be alone.
But the real horror came on another Tuesday afternoon.