The sparkling lights of the chandelier seemed to dim as the crowd drew a collective breath of disbelief.
Victoria dropped to her knees beside Clara, her expensive silk gown pooling against the marble tiles.
The woman gently lifts the crying girl into her arms, comforting her protectively.
SFX: Sobbing
Victoria: There, there, sweetheart. You're safe in my arms now. Let's get you away from this cold floor.
Lily: (Crying into Victoria's dress) He hurt my knee and ruined my dress...
Victoria: I know he did, darling. Grown men who bully children are the weakest cowels in the room.
Richard: Victoria, don't you dare lecture me. You're a member of the executive board; act like it.
Victoria: I am acting like a human being, something you clearly forgot how to be years ago.
Clara: Thank you for helping her. I didn't know anyone here would stand up to him.
Victoria: Nobody gets away with harming a child while I'm standing in the room, especially not Richard.
Richard: This is a private matter between me and these uninvited guests. Back off, Victoria.
Victoria: This is a public charity event, and your behavior has crossed every legal and moral line.
Richard sneered, adjusting his lapels as he attempted to regain his fading composure.
Richard: Call security all you want. My corporate lawyers will have them tossed out in five minutes.
Clara held Lily's hand tightly, watching Victoria with a mixture of gratitude and fiery resolve.
Can justice be served right here in the middle of the most exclusive gala of the year?