Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown novel Chapter 187

Serena's gaze was fixed intently on Aaron. She was curious to see what pearls of wisdom—or nonsense—would spill from his lips.

"There's an old saying," Aaron began, a faint smile flickering before vanishing like mist, "that you can never truly know someone's heart. I'm no detective. How am I supposed to know if she stole the earrings?"

The crowd exchanged puzzled glances, unsure of Aaron's implications.

Samuel, however, was annoyed. "Mr. Vance, surely you know what kind of person Serena is?"

Aaron's expression darkened instantly.

After a brief pause, he let out a mocking laugh. "Are you trying to teach me how to do my job?"

"I..."

Aaron raised his voice slightly, drowning out Samuel's words. "Everyone, leave."

The principal was eager to pass the buck and quickly chimed in, "Yes, yes, let's all step outside."

Cynthia Lynwood's face fell as she watched Aaron, but she had no choice but to follow the crowd out of the backstage area.

Soon, only Serena, Aaron, and Samuel remained.

Samuel stood his ground, his eyes fixed on Aaron like a predator ready to pounce. His gaze was gentle, yet there was an undeniable undercurrent of menace.

Aaron cast a sidelong glance at Serena.

She understood his silent threat all too well.

Taking a deep breath, she spoke softly, "Samuel, please, leave us."

"Serena..."

"Go on, I'll be fine."

Serena replied, "Did you clear the room just to throw insults at me?"

"If you ask for my help, I can sort this out."

Serena spun around so quickly that she knocked over a variety of makeup items, causing a series of loud bangs that shattered the backstage silence.

"So you think I stole them?"

Her lips curled into a smile, but her eyes were icy.

Aaron replied coolly, "Who took them isn't the issue. The real question is who can resolve this."

Serena let out a dry laugh. "So you're just like everyone else, aren't you? Doubting me? Fine, call the police! I trust they'll clear my name."

Aaron frowned disapprovingly. "The security footage is gone, and the earrings were found in your bag. Even with quick police work, it'll take at least a week. By then, all of Alderburg will remember you as the woman who stole the earrings."