Richard Montgomery rushed into the bright foyer, his heavy leather shoes clicking against the marble.
He wore a crisp navy blue tailored suit, fresh from an important corporate boardroom meeting downtown.
He froze near the doorway, taking in the shocking scene unfolding in his pristine front hall.
His young son was sobbing in the arms of a bleeding, visibly shaken family maid.
Vanessa was standing nearby holding a heavy gold urn, her hair unkempt and face flushed red.
What on earth is happening here, Richard demanded, his deep voice commanding total authority.
Vanessa immediately dropped the golden urn onto the floor with a loud, metallic clatter.
She squeezed out fake tears instantly, putting on a dramatic show of helplessness and fear.
Richard, thank goodness you are home, Vanessa cried out, rushing toward him in distress.
This wild maid lost her mind completely and attacked me without any reason at all!
She dropped sweet little Leo onto the floor and then lunged at me like crazy!
Vanessa pointed a shaking finger at Sarah, lying smoothly to cover up her cruel action.
I tried to protect myself using that urn because she came at me so violently!
Richard frowned deeply, his sharp eyes darting between his cousin and the quiet maid.
Sarah stood tall despite the blood trickling down her cheek, keeping Leo close and safe.
She looked straight into Richard's eyes, refusing to let fear control her voice right now.
That is complete falsehood, Mr. Montgomery, Sarah said clearly, her voice remarkably steady.
She deliberately kicked little Leo while he was crawling happily near the front table.
When I called her out for hurting him, she attacked me with that heavy urn.
Leo reached out his tiny hands toward his father, crying out softly for comfort and protection.
Richard's heart sank as he saw the small red mark on his son's leg.
He walked slowly toward Sarah, his eyes filled with growing anger toward his treacherous cousin.
He gently took Leo into his strong arms, cradling his son with tender fatherly care.
Leo buried his head into his father's chest, gradually calming down from the terrifying ordeal.
Richard looked closely at the fresh cut on Sarah's forehead, realizing the noble sacrifice made.
You protected my boy from danger, Richard said softly, acknowledging Sarah's immense bravery today.
Vanessa stepped forward nervously, realizing her lies were falling apart rapidly before her eyes.
Richard, you cannot possibly believe a simple servant over your own family blood, she whined.
Richard turned toward Vanessa slowly, his expression growing colder than icy winter winds.