Chapter 1: The Accusation
The slap echoed through the Hawthorne mansion before anyone realized what had happened.
Emma Brooks stumbled backward into the marble coffee table.
A crystal jewelry box slid open.
It was completely empty.
Claire immediately pointed at the terrified maid.
"You stole my bracelet."
Twelve guests stood frozen in silence.
Not a single person spoke up for Emma.
Emma pressed a trembling hand against her burning cheek.
"I didn't take anything," she whispered.
Claire folded her arms.
"Search her."
Within seconds, one of the house staff reluctantly checked Emma's apron pockets.
Nothing.
Her handbag.
Nothing.
Even her shoes.
Still nothing.
Claire frowned, but her confidence never wavered.
"You hid it somewhere."
Emma looked around the room, hoping someone—anyone—would defend her.
May you like
Instead, the guests avoided her eyes.
She had already been found guilty.
