The Shadows of the Past

The Blackwood mansion, evening. Ethan, 25, stood by the window, gazing out at the city. His father, Victor, 50, entered.

Victor: (pouring scotch) "Ethan, you're neglecting family business. Your responsibilities suffer."

Ethan: (turning, eyes narrowing) "I won't condone corrupt dealings, Father. Our company exploits people."

Victor: (smirking) "You're naive, Ethan. Empires are built on tough decisions."

Ethan: "Grandfather Blackwood built ours on integrity."

*Ava's Unexpected Arrival*

Ava Morales, 23, a determined journalist, arrived at the mansion.

Ava: "Mr. Blackwood, I'm investigating your family's business practices. May I ask—"

Victor: (menacingly) "Leave now, Ms. Morales. This is private property."

Ethan: (interrupting) "Father, let her speak."

Ava: "Thank you, Ethan. Your family's dealings have raised suspicions. I need answers."

Victor's expression darkened, and Ethan sensed a sinister undertone.

Victor's face reddened. "You're meddling in affairs you don't understand, Ms. Morales. Leave. Now."

Ava stood firm. "I won't back down. The public deserves truth."

Ethan intervened, his voice calm. "Father, Ava has a right to investigate."

Victor's anger boiled over. "You'll regret this, Ethan. You're betraying family loyalty."

*A Mysterious Interruption*

Lilian, Ethan's mother, entered, her eyes sunken.

Lilian: (nervously) "Victor, darling, perhaps we should—"

Victor: (cutting her off) "Not now, Lilian. This doesn't concern you."

*Ava's Resolve Strengthens*

Ava's gaze locked onto Ethan. "I'll uncover the truth, Ethan. No matter the cost."

Ethan's expression revealed inner turmoil.

*Cliffhanger*

Suddenly, a loud crash echoed from upstairs. Lilian's eyes widened in terror.

"Julian?" she whispered.