The grand hall descended into utter chaos as guests whispered behind their white gloved hands.
Victoria struggled to sit up among the bright pink pearls scattered around her feet.
Her expensive royal blue dress was rumpled, and her face flushed with deep embarrassment.
Julian stepped back, keeping his arm firmly wrapped around his quiet baby girl.
His heart pounded against his ribs while the family lawyer pushed through the crowd.
Lawyer Arthur Reynolds carried a heavy leather briefcase under his left black arm.
He looked furious as he glanced down at the smashed crystal on the floor.
Arthur: Victoria, your outrageously disrespectful scene ends right here today.
Victoria glared up at the distinguished attorney while smoothing her dark hair back.
Victoria: Get out of my way, Arthur, this is private family business!
Arthur: It became legal business the moment you destroyed those court filings.
Arthur reached into his suit jacket and pulled out a fresh sealed document.
The crowd leaned in closer to hear what the family attorney had to say.
Julian looked at Arthur with surprise, wondering what second document he was holding.
Julian: Arthur, what is that paper you just brought out?
Arthur: This is the final codicil signed by your father three days before passing.
Victoria froze on the floor, her face suddenly turning as pale as marble.
Victoria: That is impossible, he was too sick to sign anything then!
Arthur: He was completely clear-headed when he modified the family trust rules.
Arthur opened the thick envelope and read the text aloud for everyone present.
Arthur: The entire estate shall transfer directly to Julian and his biological heirs.
A collective gasp echoed through the grand room as people digested the news.
Julian felt a massive surge of relief wash over his tired body instantly.
He kissed the top of baby Lily's forehead while she rested peacefully now.
Julian: So Victoria has no legal authority over this house or trust?
Arthur: She has absolutely zero authority and no financial claim whatsoever, Julian.
Victoria scrambled up to her feet, clutching her torn royal blue dress tightly.
Victoria: You altered those papers, Arthur! I will sue you for fraud!
Arthur: The notary seals are verified by the county clerk, Mrs. Vance.
Julian stepped forward, looking down at his stepmother with complete disgust now.
Julian: You tried to sabotage my daughter just to keep the money.
Victoria: I built this estate alongside your father for fifteen long years!
Julian: You spent fifteen years spending his fortune while ignoring his true son.
Two security officers in dark suits entered the hall and walked toward Victoria.
Arthur: Officers, please escort Mrs. Vance off the premises immediately for destruction.
Victoria backed away in horror as the officers took hold of her arms.
Victoria: Unhand me right now! You have no right to touch me!
The guests pulled back to create a wide path toward the heavy exit doors.
Victoria glared at Julian with pure hatred as she was led away slowly.
Victoria: You will regret this day, Julian, I promise you that!
Julian turned his back on her, focusing entirely on his precious little daughter.
He knew this battle was far from over despite her dramatic public removal.