The evening grew colder as the sun lowered slightly over Dallas. Evelyn walked over to Clara again while Julian was pulled away by his father to discuss real estate assets. Evelyn stared directly at the heirloom brooch pinned to Clara's dress.
Evelyn: Where did you steal that brooch, Clara?
Clara: My father gave it to me. It has belonged to our family for generations.
Evelyn: That is genuine platinum with sapphire inlay. A truck driver cannot afford that!
Before Clara could step back, Evelyn reached out and grabbed the front of the blue dress. With a sharp pull, the sound of tearing silk echoed through the ballroom. The entire room went dead silent.
Evelyn: WHAT IS THIS?!
Clara: STOP! PLEASE STOP!
Tears spilled over Clara's cheeks as she covered her exposed baby bump. Evelyn ripped the fabric further, trying to pull the brooch off the dress completely. Chloe rushed over, her white wedding dress trailing behind her.
Chloe: LOOK FOR IT! IT HAS TO BE HERE!
Chloe dropped to her knees on the marble floor, clawing at the torn train of Clara's blue gown. She tore away the delicate lining, searching for more hidden jewels.
Clara: You are insane! Leave me alone!
Evelyn: You stole this from our collection during the holiday party last year!
Julian ran back across the room, his eyes wide with horror as he saw his wife exposed on the floor. He tried to pull his mother away, but Evelyn pushed him back forcefully.
Julian: Mom! What are you doing?! Put her down!
Evelyn: She is a thief, Julian! I am protecting our family estate!
Clara backed into the wall, her hands shaking violently. She reached inside her small clutch purse resting on a side table. She pulled out her phone, dialing her father's direct line with rapid keypad taps.