Lily fell through the open air toward the hard marble floor of the grand foyer below.
Mark moved faster than he had ever moved in his entire life across the room floor.
He dove forward across the polished white marble, sliding on his knees with arms reaching out.
The sound of rushing air echoed through the high ceiling as the child tumbled downward fast.
Mark threw his body directly into the spot where his daughter was about to land hard.
He caught Lily firmly against his chest just inches above the solid marble floor surface.
The force of the catch brought a heavy thud as Mark slid against the wall base.
He held the young girl tightly in his arms, his heart pounding like a hammer inside.
Mark: I've got you! I've got you, Lily! You're safe!
Lily: Daddy! Daddy! I was so scared!
Mark: Shh... it's okay, sweetie, Daddy caught you.
Lily wrapped her arms tightly around her father's neck, sobbing loudly against his dark suit jacket.
Mark pulled her close, tears of pure relief filling his wide eyes as he held her tight.
He gasped for air, his whole body shaking from the shock of the terrifying fall moment.
He checked her arms and legs quickly to ensure she had no injuries or broken bones.
Lily was trembling violently, but she was completely unharmed thanks to her father's fast slide catch.
Mark looked up toward the high balcony with a look of pure rage filling his face.
Victoria stood at the railing top, her face pale as she realized what had just happened.
Mark: Stay right there, Victoria!
Victoria: Mark, please, let me explain what happened!
Mark: You tried to kill my child in my own home!
Mark stood up carefully while holding Lily securely in one arm against his warm chest.
He marched toward the grand staircase with heavy, loud steps that echoed through the home.