The screen of the small smartphone lit up with clear video footage from earlier that morning.
The footage showed the sunny kitchen from a high camera angle near the cabinets.
Arthur watched the video clip intently as the silence in the room grew heavy.
On the screen, Victoria walked into the empty kitchen fifteen minutes prior.
She looked around carefully to ensure no staff members were watching from the hallway.
Then she pulled a small clear vial from the pocket of her green satin gown.
She opened the glass pitcher of fresh orange juice sitting on the marble island.
With a calm hand, she poured a fine white powder directly into the liquid.
She stirred the pitcher thoroughly until the powder dissolved without leaving a trace.
Then she poured a single glass and left it right where Arthur always sat for breakfast.
Arthur watched the video clip replay three times in absolute shock.
His face turned pale as he looked from the screen to his wife.
The cold reality hit his heart like a heavy stone dropping into deep water.
The white powder in the glass was a dangerous chemical agent meant to harm him.
If Elena had not stopped his hand, he would have swallowed the contents seconds ago.
Arthur: You put something into my drink, Victoria.
Arthur: You tried to poison me in my own home!
Victoria's face turned red with panic and anger.
Victoria: That video is fake!
Victoria: She used computer editing software to trick you, Arthur!
Victoria: You cannot believe a servant over your loving wife!
Arthur slammed his hand down onto the wooden dining chair with great force.
The loud thud echoed off the white marble walls like a gunshot.
Arthur: Do not insult my intelligence with blatant lies!
Arthur: I recognize my own kitchen and my own pitcher on that screen!
Elena stood tall beside the counter while holding her phone tightly.
Elena: I also kept the original vial she hid in the pantry, Mr. Sterling.
Elena: It is safely stored in a plastic bag inside my apron right now.
Victoria took a quick step forward and reached out her hands angrily toward Elena.
Victoria: Give me that bag, you worthless pest!
Arthur moved instantly and stepped directly between Victoria and the young housekeeper.
He shielded Elena from Victoria with his broad shoulders and steady frame.
Arthur: Do not touch her!
Arthur: You have caused enough harm under this roof today!