The sound of siren wails filled the long driveway outside the mansion.
Julian kept Clara wrapped securely in his arms on the floor.
He refused to let anyone move her until the paramedics arrived.
Evelyn hurried down the grand curved staircase, her hands trembling violently.
Evelyn: Julian, you must listen to me right now!
Julian: Stay away from us, Mother!
Evelyn stopped near the bottom step, looking around the empty hallway.
Evelyn: It was a terrible accident, I promise you!
Clara: You pushed me... you leaned into me!
Julian looked at his mother with utter disgust and rising rage.
For months, Evelyn had shown cold bitterness toward Clara's humble background.
She had openly opposed Julian's decision to marry outside their wealthy circle.
When Clara announced her pregnancy, Evelyn had grown even more distant.
Julian had tried to keep the peace between the two women.
He had hoped that the news of a grandchild would soften her heart.
Now he realized how dangerous his blind hope had really been.
Two police officers stepped through the heavy front doors into the foyer.
They were followed closely by two emergency medical technicians with bags.
The medical team immediately knelt down next to Clara on the floor.
Officer Miller: What happened here, sir?
Julian: My mother pushed my pregnant wife from the second floor balcony.
Evelyn stepped forward, shaking her head vigorously in front of them.
Evelyn: That is simply not true, Officer!
Evelyn: Clara lost her balance, and I tried to reach for her!
Clara looked at the police officer with tears running down her cheeks.
Clara: She told me I did not belong in this family.
Clara: Then she placed her hand against my shoulder and shoved me.
Officer Miller turned his gaze toward Evelyn with a serious expression.
Officer Miller: Ma'am, please step over here and stay very still.
The paramedics carefully lifted Clara onto a portable transport stretcher.
Julian held Clara's cold hand firmly as they moved her out.
Julian: I will be right behind you in the ambulance.
He turned back to face his mother one last time before leaving.
Julian: If anything happens to my child, you will pay for this.