Mark reached the top of the marble staircase, his eyes locked onto Victoria's fearful face now.
Victoria backed up against the wall, holding her hands out in a fake gesture of peace.
Victoria: She tripped, Mark! I was trying to grab her hand to save her!
Mark: Stop lying to me! I saw you push her over the rail!
Victoria: You saw it wrong because of the sun glare from the windows!
Mark: You are a monster, Victoria!
Mark stepped forward, his breathing heavy as he pointed a sharp finger directly at her face.
The anger in his voice shook the quiet hallway as Victoria cowered against the smooth wall.
Mark: Don't you ever dare touch my daughter again! Get out!
Victoria: You can't just throw me out after everything we planned!
Mark: Watch me! Your belongings will be on the street in five minutes!
Lily buried her small face into Mark's shoulder, feeling safe in her father's strong hold.
Victoria tried to step past Mark to reach the stairs, but he blocked her way completely.
Mark: You are never coming near this family or my estate ever again.
Victoria: I will hire a lawyer! I have rights in this house!
Mark: You have the right to remain silent when the police officers get here!
Victoria gasped as she realized Mark had already hit the emergency call button on his phone.
The distant sound of police sirens began to echo from the road outside the gated drive.
Victoria's confidence vanished entirely, replaced by absolute panic as she backed away down the hall.
Mark stood tall, protecting his daughter as the consequences of Victoria's actions arrived fast today.