The marble foyer below echoed with the faint sound of footsteps near the grand entrance.
Victoria stood close to the ornate iron railing of the upper balcony floor.
Her eyes were cold as she stared at the helpless baby in Clara's protective arms.
Victoria: That child does not belong in this wealthy family line.
Nurse Clara: She is Mr. Sterling's biological daughter and rightful heir!
Victoria: She is nothing but a reminder of a woman who is dead!
Clara took a step backward toward the corner of the upper landing.
She could see the hostility burning plainly in Victoria's dark eyes now.
Victoria reached out suddenly and tried to snatch the heavy baby blanket away.
Victoria: Hand her to me right now so I can deal with this!
Nurse Clara: No! I will never let you put this child in danger!
Clara turned her body around, shielding baby Lily completely from Victoria's grasp.
Victoria grabbed Clara's shoulder with sharp fingers and yanked her backward sharply.
The sudden pull caused Clara to stumble against the edge of the smooth top step.
Clara held tight to the baby as she lost her balance on the steep wooden stairs.
She slid down several steps, using her own knees to cushion the baby's body.
Lily began to cry loudly as the commotion shook the quiet hall atmosphere.
Clara reached the lower marble landing on her knees, cradling the child safely.
She checked the baby's hands and face immediately to ensure no injury had occurred.
Nurse Clara: Shh, my baby, you are safe now, I have got you!
Victoria stood at the top of the balcony, looking down with pure rage on her face.
She had not expected Clara to protect the child with such desperate speed.
Victoria: You reckless fool, look at the scene you have just created!
Nurse Clara: You pushed us! You tried to throw us down the stairs!
Victoria laughed coldly, adjusting her purple dress as she stepped down slowly.
Victoria: Who will take the word of a poor nurse over the mansion mistress?
Clara held Lily close against her shoulder, her heart beating furiously in her chest.
She realized then that Victoria would stop at nothing to get what she wanted.
The front doors of the mansion suddenly burst open with a loud thud.
A strong breeze blew inside, carrying the heavy scent of fresh morning rain.
Richard Sterling rushed into the hall, his face pale with sudden alarm and worry.
He had forgotten his briefcase and returned to the house just in time.
Richard: What on earth is happening in my house right now?