Helena pointed a long, manicured finger straight at Sarah's pale face.
Helena: You will hand over that diary right now, or else!
Marcus: Or else what, mother?
Helena: I will have security remove both of you from my property!
Marcus: This mansion belongs to my late father's estate trust fund.
Marcus tapped his phone screen, placing the call directly on speakerphone mode.
The loud dial tone echoed throughout the spacious, marble-tiled foyer room.
Attorney: Marcus? What can I do for you this evening?
Marcus: David, I need you to dispatch federal authorities to the mansion.
Helena: Hang up that phone right now, Marcus!
Marcus: We found Sarah alive inside the house, held against her will.
A sudden, sharp silence hung over the line for three long seconds.
Attorney: Marcus, are you absolutely certain about what you are saying?
Marcus: She has visible physical injuries and evidence of false imprisonment.
Helena: David, ignore him! He is having an emotional breakdown!
Marcus: Bring police officers and my father's probate documents immediately.
Attorney: I am leaving my office right now, Marcus. Stay safe.
The call disconnected with a sharp beep that sounded like a bell.
Helena rushed forward, reaching for the smartphone inside Marcus's grip.
Marcus stepped into her path, blocking her completely with his body frame.
Marcus: Step back away from us right now!
Helena stumbled backward, her heels catching on the soft velvet gown hem.
She dropped her crystal glass, sending red wine splashing across white marble.
The dark liquid spread fast, looking like a fresh mark of guilt.
Helena: Look at what you made me do in my house!
Marcus: Your house is about to become a full crime scene, Helena.
Sarah took a deep, clear breath, feeling true freedom for the first time.
Clara: The nightmare is finally over today, Marcus.
Marcus: Yes, it is, my love.