The missing necklace.
The Hamilton family’s accusations.
The fact that Clara had worked inside the mansion.
The fact that she had been near the jewelry room.
One statement after another made Clara look guilty.
Then Margaret took the stand.
She spoke confidently.
“I trusted her for years,” Margaret said. “That is why this betrayal hurts so much.”
Clara lowered her eyes.
Margaret continued.
“She knew exactly where everything was kept. She knew our routines. She knew the value of the necklace.”
The lawyer asked, “Do you believe Clara stole it?”
Margaret didn’t hesitate.
“Yes.”
Those three words seemed to crush Clara.
Then the lawyer turned toward Adam.
Adam looked uncomfortable.
He had known Clara for years.
Part of him still couldn’t believe she was capable of stealing.
But when asked whether he believed his mother, he quietly answered:
“I trusted my mother’s judgment.”
Clara’s eyes filled with tears.
