Julian gently helped his father stand up on the clean stone patio.
He pulled a white cotton handkerchief from his pocket to wipe Arthur's shirt.
The purple berry juice had left a dark mark on the fabric.
Arthur squeezed his son's wrist with his weak, weathered hand.
Arthur: It is fine, son. Do not start a fight today.
Julian: It is not fine, Dad. She crossed the line.
Julian turned to look at the long banquet table set up outside.
The table was covered in expensive crystal glasses and silk cloths.
Tiered cakes and silver plates sat under the bright sun.
This party was supposed to celebrate the expansion of the family firm.
For years, Victoria had treated Arthur like a hired help in the mansion.
When Arthur lost his life savings in a failed business venture, he moved in.
Julian had welcomed his father with open arms into the big estate.
However, Victoria made sure Arthur felt small every single day.
She made him eat his meals alone in the back kitchen.
She forced him to clear away dishes after large family dinners.
Arthur never complained because he did not want to ruin Julian's peace.
He loved his son more than his own comfort or pride.
Julian had suspected the mistreatment for months, but had no proof.
Now he had seen the cruelty with his own eyes.
Victoria stepped closer to the banquet table with an arrogant smile.
Victoria: Your father does not belong at a party for wealthy investors.
Julian: My father built the foundation of everything you enjoy today.
Victoria: He is a broke old man who lives on our charity.
Julian felt a sharp pain in his chest as she spoke those words.
He remembered how Arthur worked two jobs to pay for his college tuition.
He remembered how Arthur wore old shoes so Julian could have clean clothes.
The luxury mansion they stood near was built on Julian's successful business.
That business would never exist without Arthur's sacrifices years ago.
Victoria turned her back on Julian to talk to her wealthy friends.
She laughed loudly as if nothing bad had just happened.
Julian took a deep breath as his jaw tightened.
He stepped toward the long banquet table with purposeful steps.
The surrounding guests stopped talking to watch the young CEO.
Julian raised his leg and kicked the central wooden table leg with all his strength.
The massive dining table tilted sideways with a violent wood crack.
Plates, glass bowls, and silver trays crashed onto the stone floor.
Wine bottles shattered, pouring red liquid over the expensive rugs.
Screams echoed across the patio as food splattered everywhere.