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.

don’t want to be

to cause any more

I don’t want our conflict to continue like

”

insincerity, Hannah

“Fine, whatever.

wish to quarrel

”

to depart,

alled out, “Wait!”

Hannah frowned, growing impatient.

at the party,

you persist, I’ll

”

glasses of wine

took two glasses of wine from the tray, approached Hannah, and offered her one

“I’ve lost.

admit I can’t

feud by drinking

”

previously agitated, had now

doubted Melina’s sudden change of heart

Melina’s hand, she replied with a slight smile, “I’m hesitant

you may have

”

a pang of guilt as Hannah’s

the glass tighter, she insisted, “I merely took

see for

would I drug you? I’m

I’ve decided to stop.