Richard: What in God's name is happening in my house?
Victoria: Richard! Thank goodness you're here! You have to listen to me!
Richard: I saw enough through the security feed on my phone as I pulled into the driveway, Victoria!
Victoria: It wasn't what it looked like! The maid slipped and dropped her!
Maid: (Looking up in distress) Sir, she threw her off balcony! I saw her push her over the railing!
Richard: Shut your mouth, Victoria! Don't you dare lie to me when my daughter is bruised and terrified on the floor!
Victoria: You're choosing the help over your own wife? The prenuptial agreement made you bitter!
The wealthy man in the tailored navy blue suit crossed the marble floor in three massive, furious strides, his rapid footsteps echoing like gunshots. Doors slamming open behind him had let in a gust of cold autumn air, but it was nothing compared to the freezing rage radiating from his expression. His jaw was clenched so tightly a muscle ticked violently near his cheek as he took in the horrifying scene. The American flag hanging proudly on the balcony wall felt like a bitter irony in a home torn apart by greed and betrayal. Richard looked down at Maria holding the trembling child, then glared upward with an intensely furious and enraged expression.
Richard: Maria, are you both alright? Is she hurt?
Maid: She's shaken up, sir, but she's safe in my arms. Thank God I caught her.
Richard: You saved her life today, Maria. You are a hero.
Victoria: (Rushing down the stairs) Richard, listen to me! She tried to hurt our daughter!
Richard: You murderous witch! You tried to throw her off that balcony for a bigger divorce settlement!
Victoria: That's a lie! My lawyer said—
Richard: Your lawyer won't be able to help you in a maximum-security prison!
With sudden, violent movement, Richard marched straight toward the grand staircase with overwhelming anger burning in his veins. A tense drone swell filled the air as he confronted Victoria right in front of the sweeping banister, his hand moving with lightning speed. A sharp, echoing slap cracked across the foyer, silencing every other sound in the mansion. Victoria stumbled backward under the force of the blow, gasping in shock as physical pain bloomed across her cheek.