The antique tilted dangerously over the edge of the second-floor iron railing.
Victoria let go completely and took a quick step backward into the hallway.
Elena ran faster across the slippery white floor than she ever had before.
She slid down on her knees across the smooth marble, extending her arms forward.
She caught the heavy silver piece just inches before it struck the hard ground.
The sharp metallic sound echoed through the massive, quiet foyer.
Elena cradled the heavy object tightly against her chest, gasping for breath.
Her knees hurt from the hard slide, but the family legacy was safe in her arms.
Up on the balcony, Victoria gasped softly in complete shock and frustration.
She gripped the iron railing, staring down at the kneeling maid in anger.
Elena looked up from the floor, her eyes filled with sudden tears of shock.
Elena: How could you drop something so precious on purpose?
Victoria: Keep your mouth shut if you want to keep your job!
Victoria hurried down the winding stairs with fast, noisy steps.
She stood over Elena, her arms crossed tight against her beige silk gown.
Victoria: Give that to me right now, you foolish girl!
Elena: No, this belongs to Mr. Sterling's family, not you.
Victoria: Who do you think he will believe, his wife or a maid?
Elena stood up slowly, clutching the silver cradle firmly to her chest.
Elena: He will believe the truth when he sees what you tried to do.
Victoria: You are out of your mind if you think I will let you speak!
Victoria reached out aggressively to yank the heavy object out of Elena's hands.
Elena stepped back quickly, keeping her balance on the slippery floor.
Before Victoria could grab it again, the heavy front double doors swung wide open.
Arthur stepped into the grand foyer holding his leather briefcase.
He stopped in his tracks, looking at the intense scene unfolding right before him.