The grand dining hall inside the city mansion was bright and noisy.
Wealthy guests sat around a long table covered in expensive food and silver silverware.
Clara adjusted the heavy strap of the baby carrier across her shoulders.
Her four-month-old son named Leo let out a soft sound against her chest.
She wiped her tired eyes and picked up a heavy tray from the side table.
Clara worked two full jobs just to afford rent and pay for simple baby supplies.
The head housekeeper had warned her never to bring a child to work.
However, Clara had no money left for a baby sitter that cold afternoon.
She kept her head down and moved carefully around the seated guests.
Lady Eleanor sat right at the head of the table in a red dress.
She was the owner of the massive home and held great influence in town.
Clara leaned forward over the table to clear away a dirty white plate.
Little Leo suddenly kicked his tiny leg out in excitement.
His small foot bumped directly into a tall red wine glass.
The glass tipped sideways and spilled dark liquid straight onto Lady Eleanor's satin dress.
The wealthy woman gasped loudly and jumped up from her wooden chair.
Red liquid quickly soaked through the front of her expensive clothes.
Lady Eleanor: You clumsy idiot, you completely ruined my custom gown!
Clara: I am so sorry, ma'am, it was a complete accident!
Lady Eleanor: You brought a dirty infant into my dining room to work?
Clara: My sitter canceled today and I really needed this work shift.
Lady Eleanor: I do not care about your pathetic excuses or your messy life!
The entire dining room grew silent as guests stared at the shaking maid.
Clara pulled Leo closer to her chest to protect him from the harsh noise.
Lady Eleanor stepped forward with a furious look across her face.
She pointed a long manicured finger directly toward the open door.
Lady Eleanor: You are fired, and you will pay for this dress right now!
Clara felt tears sting her eyes as she backed away from the table.
She held Leo tightly and prayed she would not lose her job today.