Sarah dropped her heavy paper files onto the floor without taking her eyes off Elena.
The loose white sheets scattered across the dusty hardwood floor near the top stair.
She rushed forward instantly and wrapped her arms around her trembling daughter.
Lily leaned into her mother's side while pointing a shaking finger down the hall.
Lily: Mom, check the safe!
Lily: She had the key and took the black box!
Sarah looked past Elena's shoulder toward the wide open wall panel behind the frame.
The black iron safe door stood completely open, revealing empty velvet shelves inside.
Elena stood frozen on the spot, still holding the red fire extinguisher by its handle.
Her hands began shaking so badly that the heavy metal bottle knocked against her shoe.
Sarah: What is the meaning of this, Elena?
Elena: It was an accident, ma'am!
Elena: The safety pin fell out when I bumped the wall hook while vacuuming.
Sarah: Do not lie to me while standing in my home!
Sarah: Why is my grandmother's safe open behind that mirror?
Elena: I saw it hanging open and tried to secure it for you.
Lily: She's lying, Mom!
Lily: She put the velvet pouch inside her grey apron pocket right before spraying!
Sarah's expression hardened into pure icy anger as she shielded her young child.
She stepped directly between Elena and the stairway exit leading to the front door.
Sarah: Empty your apron pockets right now.
Elena: You have no right to search me like this!
Sarah: I have every right inside my own home.
Sarah: Put the box on the floor or I call the sheriff immediately.