Clara rushed into the grand foyer before Victoria could strike the scared child.
Clara: Stop, please!
Victoria spun around quickly, her face twisting in utter disgust at the interruption.
Victoria: How dare you address me in that tone, Clara!
Clara: Leave the boy alone, Mrs. Vance!
Victoria: You are a hired servant here, so know your proper place!
Clara stepped directly between Victoria and the small crying boy to protect him.
She opened her arms wide, completely blocking Victoria from reaching young Leo.
Leo wrapped his tiny hands around Clara's apron, shaking uncontrollably behind her back.
Victoria: Get out of my way right now, or I will fire you!
Clara: I will not move while you threaten a helpless child!
Victoria lost her temper completely and lunged forward with a furious snarl.
She shoved Clara hard against the cold white marble floor with all her strength.
Clara lost her balance and hit the floor hard, gasping aloud from the shock.
Leo screamed out in terror as he saw his gentle maid fall to the ground.
Victoria laughed coldly and turned back toward the defenseless child with narrow eyes.
She grabbed Leo by his dark jacket collar, pulling him away from Clara.
Clara tried to scramble back to her feet, her knees aching from the hard fall.
She reached out desperate hands, but Victoria pushed her back down without mercy.
The cruel stepmother raised her voice, yelling harsh words at the weeping orphan boy.
Clara looked toward the massive oak front doors, praying for a miracle to happen.
Suddenly, the sound of heavy vehicle tires screeched loudly in the long driveway outside.