The Unshackled Queen: Never Say Never by Gilbert Soysal

Hannah and Bryson both turned to face Melina.

Bryson spoke first, his gaze icy as he addressed her.

“You’re aware Hannah isn’t responsible for the theft, yet you’ve still implicated her.

”

“It’s not my fault.

I thought the waitress was telling the truth.

”

“So, you can casually slander her?” Grace retorted, her tone sharp with anger.

Melina clenched her teeth, unwilling to confess.

“I didn’t intend it.

Everyone makes mistakes.

Now that the diamonds have been found in my bag, I’m facing public scrutiny.

Isn’t that enough?”

Hannah regarded her icily.

“So, what did you call out to me for?”

Melina hesitated, her gaze shifting.

When she noticed a waitress approaching nearby, she abruptly spoke up.

want to

want to cause any more

our conflict to

”

Melina’s insincerity, Hannah remained

“Fine, whatever.

to quarrel

”

to depart,

alled out, “Wait!”

Hannah frowned, growing impatient.

at the party,

you persist, I’ll

”

a waitress carrying glasses of wine happened to

from the tray, approached

“I’ve lost.

admit I can’t compete

put an end to our feud by drinking this glass

”

previously agitated, had now shifted

sudden change of

in Melina’s hand, she replied with a slight smile, “I’m hesitant to drink the wine you’re

fear you may have tampered with

”

pang of guilt as Hannah’s

glass tighter, she insisted, “I merely took it

see

I drug

I’ve decided to stop.