Only then did Arthur stand and turn toward the blonde maid.
Emily Parker still wore the hotel's simple navy housekeeping uniform. A name tag rested neatly over her heart, and a small cleaning cart remained parked several feet away.
She looked completely ordinary.
Yet there was nothing ordinary about the courage she'd shown.
"You did the right thing," Arthur said.
Emily shook her head.
"I was only doing what anyone should have done."
Arthur smiled faintly.
"I've learned that not everyone does."
The woman in the black gown finally found her voice again.
"This is ridiculous," she snapped. "She grabbed me in front of everyone! She's just a maid."
Arthur's expression hardened.
"And?"
The single word carried enough authority to make the lobby feel even quieter.
The woman hesitated.
"I... she assaulted me."
Several guests exchanged uneasy glances.
One elderly gentleman stepped forward.
"That's not what happened."
Everyone turned toward him.
"I watched the entire thing," he said calmly. "You raised your hand first. She simply stopped you."
Another guest nodded.
"So did I."