Officer Davis escorted the handcuffed blonde woman slowly down the grand staircase.
Her green velvet dress dragged along the carpeted steps as she stumbled.
Arthur followed a few paces behind, keeping his protective gaze on his child.
The mansion was filled with a heavy, lingering silence save for Victoria's sobs.
They reached the vast marble floor of the entrance hall near the front door.
Arthur looked at the high ceiling where the entire nightmare had unfolded moments ago.
He remembered the terrifying vision of his son falling through the air.
His knees felt weak again, but he kept his balance for Leo's sake.
"We will need you to come to the station to give a statement, sir," Davis said.
"Our team will review all security footage from the hall cameras as well."
Arthur nodded promptly. "The entire home is covered by high-definition cameras."
"Every single angle of that balcony is recorded on our secure cloud system."
Victoria froze near the front exit, her face turning completely white again.
She had forgotten about the newly installed security cameras near the entryway.
The reality of her recorded actions suddenly crushed her remaining defiance.
"Arthur, please, don't hand over those camera tapes!" she begged pathetically.
"We can handle this through a private divorce attorney without charges!"
"You tried to endanger our innocent son for money," Arthur replied firmly.
"You will face the full weight of the legal system now."
The second officer opened the heavy front door, revealing bright natural daylight outside.
Two police cruisers were parked along the driveway with their lights flashing silently.
Victoria was led down the stone steps toward the waiting police vehicle.
Neighbors from across the quiet suburban street stepped out onto their lawns.
They watched in complete shock as the elegant wealthy woman was placed inside.
The rear door of the police cruiser slammed shut with a sharp click.
Officer Davis turned back to Arthur before getting into his vehicle.
"You moved remarkably fast back there, Mr. Vance," the officer remarked kindly.
"Most people freeze completely when panic strikes like that."
"I only cared about saving my son," Arthur answered softly.
"Nothing else in this world matters to me more than his safety."
The police cars started their engines and drove slowly down the long driveway.
Arthur stood near the front threshold, watching them turn onto the main road.
The house behind him was finally quiet, free from deceit and hidden threats.