Encore of the Avenging Muse (Sylvia and Rupert)

Chapter 257

"Why did you knock over the coffee cup that day?" Eloise asked, her patience wearing thin.

"Ms. Eloise, it was a complete accident," Freya pleaded, her voice quivering. "I was just drawn to the sapphire, and when I glanced at it, my hand slipped, and the cup went flying."

Sylvia caught a suspicious glare directed her way. It was Bridget.

Bridget stepped forward, her eyebrows raised. "Ms. Eloise, is there something wrong with the sapphire?"

Eloise didn't respond, which seemed to confirm Bridget's suspicion.

Bridget, ever the voice of reason, suggested, "If there's any doubt, Ms. Eloise, why not check the security footage? Freya's not the type to mess around with something worth millions."

Freya nodded vigorously, tears brimming in her eyes. "Yes, please, Ms. Eloise, I'm innocent! Let the footage prove it."

Just then, Bella chimed in, "Ms. Eloise, I already have the footage from the meeting room."

Eloise's expression darkened as she glanced at Bella. "You're well-prepared, I see."

just wanted to be ready in case something happened," Bella

the footage," Eloise instructed, pointing at the

room, aside from Sylvia and Hilbert, the appraiser, no

tripped, but she only brushed against the table.

been on the opposite side of the table; there was no way anyone could have

ended up clearing Freya of any

of relief and fell to her knees. "Ms. Eloise, you see? I didn't

the office

the defender of justice, said, "Ms. Eloise, you can't just accuse Freya because she lacks influence. If anyone had a chance to tamper with the sapphire, it

in agreement. Some were envious

chance to bring her down a

Eloise, we all saw it. Sylvia was the only one near the sapphire. If

Freya's too timid

clamored throughout the office,

her hands for silence.

me? Did I say Freya was guilty? Out,

fell silent and