The call connected just as Clara started sobbing heavily.
Clara: Dad, please come to the altar right now!
Arthur: I am already walking into the parking lot, sweetheart.
Arthur hung up the phone instantly without another single word.
A sudden heavy footstep sounded against the concrete walkway.
An older man in a charcoal suit marched past the flag post.
Arthur's face was flushed dark red with extreme anger.
He took in the scene of his daughter in tears fast.
He saw her torn silver dress and her pale, terrified expression.
Then he saw Mark standing there doing absolutely nothing at all.
Arthur marched past the stunned guests at a fast pace.
Arthur: What did you do to my daughter?
Mark backed up slightly and put his hands up high.
Mark: Sir, please let us talk about this calmly!
Arthur did not want to talk about anything calm right now.
He stepped right up to Mark at the front altar step.
He swung his hand fast and struck Mark hard across the cheek.
The sharp sound echoed across the entire open outdoor venue.
Mark stumbled backward against the wooden flower arch in shock.
The crowd gasped loudly at the sudden dramatic physical confrontation.
Elena shouted in shock and stepped away from her father.
Arthur: You swore you would protect my daughter and baby!
Mark: You don't know the whole story, Arthur!
Arthur: I know you stood by while she was humiliated!
Clara sank down onto a nearby chair, crying softly into hands.
Her father stood like a shield between her and Mark.
The warm sunlight kept shining down on the ruined ceremony.