The heavy dark wooden doors at the main entrance of the ballroom swung wide open.
Julian Vance stepped into the hall wearing a tailored navy suit and polished leather shoes.
He had just returned from an important emergency board meeting in the city center.
He stopped in his tracks as he noticed the unnatural silence across the massive room.
Julian looked toward the center of the floor where a crowd had formed a circle.
He saw his wife holding an empty green bottle with a cruel smile on her face.
Julian's eyes moved down to the kneeling maid soaked in wet champagne and glass pieces.
His face turned pale as he recognized the young woman sitting on the cold floor.
Julian: What is going on here?
His voice cut through the silence like a sharp knife, echoing off high ceilings.
Victoria turned around quickly and tried to adjust her dark wine silk gown.
Victoria: Julian, darling! You came back early from your meeting!
Julian: I asked you a simple question, Victoria.
Victoria: This stupid maid knocked over a tray and ruined my whole night!
Julian: So you poured wine over her head like a wild animal?
Victoria: She needed to be taught a lesson about her low place in this house!
Julian marched forward with fast, heavy steps across the grand marble ballroom floor.
His face was red with pure anger as he shoved past two shocked male guests.
Julian: Step away from her right now!
Victoria: Why are you raising your voice at me in front of everyone?
Julian: Because you have completely humiliated this family tonight!
Julian dropped to his knees right into the puddle of champagne and broken glass.
He paid no attention to his expensive navy suit getting completely soaked and ruined.
Julian took out his soft silk pocket square and gently wiped Clara's wet face.
Julian: Are you hurt, Clara?
Clara: I am okay, sir.
Julian: Please forgive my wife for her disgusting behavior.
Victoria gasped loudly as she watched her wealthy husband care for a humble maid.
Victoria: Have you lost your mind, Julian?
Julian: Get out of this ballroom before I throw you out myself!