Diving Across the Marble

Maria: I’ve got you! You’re safe!

The impact against the marble floor sent a sharp, agonizing shock through Maria’s shoulder and ribs. Skid marks left a streak on the polished stone as she curled her arms tightly around the bundle, tucking it into her chest to absorb the crash. She squeezed her eyes shut, sobbing in sheer terror and agony, waiting for the sound of a crying infant.

Maria: Shhh, sweet baby, it's okay... please be okay...

She opened her eyes, tears streaming down her freckled cheeks, and pulled back the corner of the heavy pink blanket. Her breath caught in her throat. Inside the bundle was not a living child, but a weighted porcelain doll wrapped in plush infant clothing. Her heart pounded against her ribs like a trapped bird.

Maria: What... what is this? Where is Lily?

High above on the balcony, Victoria stood at the railing. Her panic had completely vanished, replaced by a cold, sharp sneer. She pulled out her phone, immediately dialing a number while pointing down at Maria on the floor.

Victoria: Stay right there, you little thief.

Maria: Mrs. Vance, why would you do this? Where is the baby?

Victoria: Shut your mouth! You just tried to murder my daughter!

Before Maria could push herself up from the floor, the heavy double oak front doors of the mansion slammed open with a deafening crack. Julian Vance, dressed in a sharp black Italian suit after returning early from his legal consultation regarding the family mortgage and estate assets, rushed into the foyer. He froze, his eyes wide as he looked at Maria lying bruised on the floor with the blanket.

Victoria: Julian! Thank God you're home! Call the police!

Julian: Victoria? What on earth happened in here?

Victoria: She tried to kill our baby! I caught her trying to sneak out with Lily, and when I screamed, she dropped her over the balcony!

Maria: Mr. Vance, no! That’s a lie! Look at what’s in the blanket!

Victoria: Don't listen to her, Julian! She's crazy! She dropped our little girl!

Julian turned his furious glare toward Maria, his hands clenching into tight fists as he took a heavy step toward the maid, who was struggling to sit up.

Julian: GET OUT OF MY HOUSE RIGHT NOW! CALL 911 NOW!