Arthur backed away from the table with a stunned expression on his face.
He shook his head wildly and pointed an angry finger at Toby.
Arthur: The boy is making up stories to avoid getting grounded!
Evelyn stood up slowly while holding onto the edge of the table.
Her hands trembled slightly, but her eyes remained cold and sharp.
Evelyn: My grandson does not tell terrible lies like that, Arthur.
Arthur: You are taking the word of a child over your son?
Evelyn: I am listening to what he saw with his own eyes.
Toby hid behind his grandmother's floral dress for safety and protection.
He pointed toward the kitchen cabinet near the heavy pantry door.
Toby: The small glass bottle is still in his coat pocket!
Arthur reached instinctively toward his navy jacket pocket without thinking first.
He stopped himself instantly, but the motion was far too late now.
Evelyn caught the small movement and felt her heart sink deeply.
Evelyn: Show me what is inside your coat pocket right now.
Arthur: This is completely absurd and I will not be accused!
He turned around quickly to head toward the main front entrance door.
Before he could leave, the family lawyer walked into the room.
Mr. Vance carried a leather briefcase tucked tightly under his arm.
He stopped when he saw the broken bowl and spilled liquid.
Mr. Vance: Is everything alright in here today, Mrs. Sterling?
Evelyn: Call the local police department right now, Mr. Vance.
Arthur turned back with panic clearly visible across his pale face.
Arthur: Mom, please do not ruin our family name over this!
Mr. Vance: What exactly is happening in this dining room right now?
Evelyn: My son tried to alter the terms of my estate today.
Arthur stepped closer to the lawyer with a desperate look in his eyes.
Arthur: I did everything to protect the family business from failing!
Evelyn: You did everything to steal the inheritance for yourself alone!
Toby tugged softly on his grandmother's sleeve to get her attention.
Toby: The dog is asleep under the porch and will not wake!
Evelyn felt a wave of horror wash over her entire body instantly.
She looked at Arthur like she was seeing a complete stranger today.
Evelyn: You crossed a line that can never be undone, Arthur.