Before Sarah could say another word, heels tapped loudly down the marble hallway.
Victoria Vance, Arthur's stepmother, walked into the bright foyer wearing a red dress.
She held a golden purse in one hand and a cold smile on her lips.
She paused when she saw Arthur standing in the center of the room.
Victoria: Arthur darling! You came back home much earlier than I expected.
Arthur: Step away from the door, Victoria. We need to talk right now.
Victoria glanced down at Sarah, her eyes narrowing into cold slits of disdain.
Victoria: Why are you speaking to the help in such a serious tone, Arthur?
Arthur: Look at her arms! Did you cause these severe bruises on her body?
Victoria laughed softly, waving her golden purse off as if it were nothing.
Victoria: She is just clumsy, dear. She dropped a heavy crystal vase this morning.
Sarah: I did not drop it, ma'am... you threw the tray at me!
Victoria stepped forward quickly, her voice dropping into a sharp, dangerous whisper.
Victoria: Be quiet! You are a paid worker here, not a family member!
Arthur: Do not ever speak to anyone in my house like that again, Victoria!
Victoria: This is my home too, Arthur! Your father left me in charge!
Arthur: My father's will gave me control of the estate and every property contract.
Victoria pulled her shoulders back, trying hard to maintain her proud appearance.
Victoria: You would take the word of a poor maid over your own family?
Arthur: Sarah has worked here honestly every single day without complaint.
Arthur: I see the marks on her skin, Victoria. That is not an accident.
Sarah pulled herself up from the floor, standing nervously beside the wooden railing.
Sarah: I just wanted to earn money for my mother's vital hospital treatment.
Victoria: Then you should have been more careful with my expensive glass dishes!
Arthur: Money and items can be replaced easily, Victoria. Human dignity cannot.
Victoria: Are you threatening me over a simple domestic matter, Arthur?
Arthur: I am telling you that cruelty will no longer happen under this roof.
Victoria glared at Sarah with pure hatred burning in her dark eyes.
Victoria: If she stays here another minute, I will call my divorce lawyer!
Arthur: Go ahead and call him, because your stay in this house is over.