By late afternoon, dark rain clouds began gathering along the distant city horizon.
Julian had called earlier to say his board meeting was running very late.
Victoria spent the evening pacing back and forth across the white marble foyer.
She grew increasingly frustrated that Julian was not home to sign new property papers.
Clara carried baby Leo downstairs after bathing him for his evening sleep.
The baby held his small wooden toy tightly against his soft blue blanket.
Victoria suddenly turned around near the top of the steep marble staircase.
Victoria: Give that child to me right now!
Clara: Ma'am, he is fast asleep and ready for bed.
Victoria: I said hand him over immediately!
Victoria aggressively snatched the child right from Clara's protective arms.
Leo woke up instantly and began crying out in loud frantic fear.
Victoria: Stop that repulsive noise this instant!
Victoria shook the small baby roughly as she walked toward the high balcony edge.
Clara: Please, ma'am! Be gentle with him!
Victoria: Shut your mouth! I will do whatever I please in my own home!
Victoria stood right near the slick edge of the high marble steps.
Her face twisted into a dark and malicious grin under the bright chandelier lights.
She intentionally tilted the baby backward over the steep edge of the marble landing.
Clara: No! Stop!
Victoria released her grip, letting the helpless child slip toward the hard floor below.
Clara did not hesitate for even a single fraction of a second.
She lunged forward across the slick marble floor with every ounce of speed she had.
Clara dove forward frantically, reaching her arms out as far as possible.
She caught baby Leo tightly against her chest just inches before impact.
The heavy thud of Clara's knees hit the hard marble floor loudly.
Leo wailed bitterly, clinging tightly to Clara's blue uniform jacket.
Clara knelt on the cold stone, weeping hysterical tears of pure relief.
Clara: I've got you! You are safe now, my sweet baby!