The high-ceilinged mansion hall was filled with soft classical music and voices.
Wealthy guests walked around holding expensive drinks while discussing business and investments.
Evelyn Vance stood near the center staircase wearing a custom navy dress.
Her sharp eyes locked onto Clara the moment she walked inside.
Mark held Clara's hand tightly as they approached his mother.
Evelyn gave a cold, practiced smile that did not reach her eyes.
Evelyn: You actually decided to come, Clara.
Clara: We wanted to support Mark and talk things through.
Evelyn: There is nothing to talk about regarding my estate.
Mark: We did not come here to discuss your money, Mother.
Evelyn: Everyone comes here wanting something from my trust fund.
Evelyn stepped closer to Clara and spoke in a harsh whisper.
Evelyn: You think a baby will grant you access to this mansion.
Clara: I love Mark, not your status or your money.
Evelyn: Save your soft words for someone who believes them.
Mark stepped between his mother and his pregnant wife with anger.
He reminded his mother that Clara was his family now.
Evelyn turned away smoothly to talk with her wealthy business attorney.
She announced to the crowd that major legal changes were coming today.
She hinted that Mark would lose his inheritance if he stayed married.
Clara felt her face burning with embarrassment under the guests' stares.
She excused herself to get a glass of water from upstairs.
She walked up the grand curved staircase toward the top floor hallway.
The upstairs balcony overlooked the massive marble foyer below where guests mingled.
Clara leaned against the wooden wall to catch her breath slowly.
She did not hear the light footsteps approaching her from behind.