The sunlight poured through the high windows of the grand foyer.
Clara stood near the wooden railing on the second floor.
She adjusted her blush pink dress with trembling hands.
Her mother in law Eleanor stepped closer with a cold glare.
Eleanor wore her expensive burgundy suit with stiff pride.
She pointed a finger directly at Clara's tear-streaked face.
Eleanor: You think you can trick my son forever?
Clara: I have never lied to Mark about anything!
Eleanor: You only married him for his family estate!
Clara: That is completely untrue and you know it!
Clara took a small step backward toward the wooden edge.
Her heart hammered against her ribs like a trapped bird.
She clutched her belly to protect her unborn baby.
Eleanor raised her voice until it echoed in the hall.
Eleanor: Don't you ever come back into this house!
Clara: Please stop screaming at me Eleanor!
Eleanor made a sudden sharp gesture with both hands.
Clara stumbled backward as her shoe lost its grip.
A terrified gasp escaped from her dry lips instantly.
She pitched over the polished balcony railing into midair.
Eleanor froze in horror as she realized what happened.
She slapped both hands over her mouth in sheer panic.
Down below Mark entered through the front glass doors.
He saw his pregnant wife falling from the upper floor.
Mark: Clara! No!
Mark sprinted across the polished wooden floor at full speed.
His dark blue suit jacket flew open as he moved.
He dove forward without worrying about his own safety.
He stretched his arms wide open to catch her body.
He slid onto his knees hard across the floor surface.
Clara landed heavily in his strong embrace with a thud.
The impact knocked the breath straight out of his lungs.
He held her tight against his chest on the ground.