The elevator doors opened directly into the private foyer of the Dallas penthouse apartment.
Two uniformed police officers stepped out with their hands resting near their tactical belts.
Officer Harris: We received a report of an attempted poisoning at this residence.
Arthur: Yes, Officer. My wife attempted to poison my juice just short minutes ago.
Victoria immediately tried to put on a helpless expression and ran toward the officers.
Victoria: Officers, thank goodness you are here! My husband and the maid are framing me!
Officer Harris: Ma'am, please stand back and remain calm while we assess the situation.
Arthur: We have clear video evidence recorded on this phone right here.
Arthur took Emily's phone and showed the crystal-clear clip directly to the lead police officer.
Officer Harris watched the screen closely as Victoria poured the white powder into the glass container.
He looked up from the device and eyed the red sequined dress Victoria was wearing right now.
Officer Harris: The video shows a match for the suspect's clothing and distinct jewelry.
Victoria: That video is altered! You cannot trust a maid over a prominent citizen!
Officer Harris: Ma'am, turn around and place your hands behind your back immediately.
Victoria: Don't touch me! Do you know who my family is in this city?
The second officer stepped forward smoothly and clicked steel handcuffs around Victoria's wrists.
She screamed in frustration as the metal locked securely into place around her delicate skin.
The noise echoed off the cold marble walls of the expensive Dallas living room.
Officer Harris: Victoria Sterling, you are under arrest for attempted murder and physical assault.
Victoria: Arthur, tell them to stop! Tell them this was just a huge misunderstanding!
Arthur turned his back on his wife as the officers guided her toward the open elevator doors.
He felt no joy in seeing her arrested, only a cold sense of relief and quiet shock.
The life he thought he had built over the last five years was based on total deception.
The glass of poisoned juice still sat safely on the top shelf near the kitchen cabinets.
Officer Harris: We will secure the glass as primary evidence for the state crime lab.
Arthur: Take whatever you need to ensure justice is served completely.
The elevator doors slid shut, cutting off Victoria's shouting as she was taken downstairs to the squad car.
The spacious apartment suddenly became dead silent except for the faint hum of the air conditioner.
Arthur took a deep breath of fresh air and turned to face the young woman who saved him.