Clara lunged forward before anyone in the grand room could process her sudden movement.
Her hand shot out and knocked the antique champagne glass directly from Julian's hand.
The delicate glass arc through the air, flipping twice before hitting the floor.
It shattered with a sharp ringing sound across the polished white marble surface.
Golden liquid splashed across the floor, soaking into the bottom of Victoria's gown.
The sharp sound echoed loudly against the tall walls of the empty ballroom.
Julian jumped back in total shock, staring down at the dripping floor mess.
Julian: What on earth did you just do, Clara?
Victoria: You stupid, worthless girl, you ruined my custom bridal gown!
Victoria stepped right into Clara's space with her hands clenched in deep anger.
Her face twisted into a mask of pure fury that Julian had never seen before.
Victoria: You just destroyed a five-thousand-dollar hand-woven silk lace dress!
Clara: I am sorry about the dress, but I had to stop him.
Victoria: Kneel down right now and pick up every single sharp shard!
Clara stood her ground despite the trembling fear running through her legs.
She looked directly into Julian's confused eyes without dropping her head.
Julian: Clara, this is completely uncharacteristic behavior for you in this house.
Julian: You need to explain yourself right now before I call security.
Victoria: Do not let her explain anything, Julian, fire her on the spot!
Victoria: She is jealous and trying to sabotage our big wedding day!
Victoria raised her voice, calling for the head security guard near the doors.
Two large guards in suit jackets began moving quickly across the vast room.
Clara reached deep into the side pocket of her white linen apron.
Her fingers wrapped around the cool plastic edge of her personal smartphone.
She pulled the device out and pressed the screen code with a firm thumb.
Clara: I did not knock that drink down out of malice or carelessness.
Clara: I knocked it down because that glass was intentionally poisoned.
The room suddenly fell into a heavy, suffocating silence that made time stand still.
Julian blinked in utter confusion, looking from Clara to his angry bride.
Victoria: She is lying to cover up her total incompetence and stupidity!
Victoria: Drag her out of this house right now and call the police!
Clara: Wait! Look at this screen before anyone touches me!