Elena: *Panicking as she backs away* Richard, calm down. Let me explain this rationally—
Richard: You don't get to explain anything after what you just tried to do!
Elena rushed frantically down the grand marble staircase, her heels clicking rapidly against the stone as she tried to escape the wrath boiling in her husband's eyes[cite: 1]. Fast tracking across the foyer, Richard intercepted her right in front of the massive American flag mounted on the wall[cite: 1]. Without a moment of hesitation, his hand swung through the air with terrifying velocity[cite: 1].
Richard: Don't you dare lie to me! *Loud sharp slap impact rings out across the room*
Elena: *Gasps in utter shock* Ahh! You hit me!
Richard: That is for trying to murder my flesh and blood!
Elena stumbled backward from the force of the blow, her back slamming hard against the polished wooden balcony railing[cite: 1]. Her hand flew up to cup her bruised, burning red cheek, her eyes wide with disbelief and horror[cite: 1]. A dramatic, gasping breath escaped her lips as she realized her wealthy status and social standing could no longer protect her from Richard's absolute fury[cite: 1].
Elena: You animal... how could you raise your hand against your wife?
Richard: Wife? You forfeited that title the moment you let go of that baby's hand!
Elena: It was just a moment of weakness! You don't understand the pressure I'm under with this estate!
Richard: Pressure? You call trying to murder an innocent child pressure?!
The bitter words echoed against the marble walls, stripping away years of hidden resentment and cold marital pretense[cite: 1]. Richard towered over her, his chest heaving with every ragged breath he took[cite: 1]. He had trusted her with his family, his home, and his legacy, only to discover a monster wearing a designer dress[cite: 1].