Chapter 202

Gabrielle's hopeful gaze locked onto Nathaniel, silently begging him to stand with her against Evelyn.

Dominic and the others watched Nathaniel intently, curious how he'd navigate this conflict between his wife and longtime friend.

His face remained an unreadable mask. "I know you wouldn't accuse someone without cause," he finally said in that deep, commanding voice.

The statement clearly placed Nathaniel in Gabrielle's corner.

Evelyn's heart sank. She lowered her head, lips twisting into a bitter smile. Of course no one would take her side. Why would they?

After everything she and Nathaniel had been through together - the dangerous missions, the intimate nights - he'd chosen Gabrielle without hesitation.

That stung more than she cared to admit.

Trust truly was the rarest commodity in this world.

The room's occupants studied Evelyn with varying expressions - some doubtful, others already convinced of her guilt.

Gabrielle allowed herself a fleeting moment of triumph before resuming her wounded expression. "Thank you for believing me, Nathaniel. I don't know how I'd bear this injustice otherwise."

Sophia Bennett suddenly pushed forward. "You're wrong, Uncle Nathaniel! I believe Evelyn!"

The young girl turned fiercely toward Gabrielle. "You can't make accusations without proof! I watched the whole time Evelyn tried on those boots - she never put anything in them!"

Gabrielle sighed dramatically. "Sweetheart, criminals don't commit crimes in plain sight. Evelyn was the only one who touched my boots before the ear stud appeared. The facts speak for themselves."

"That's ridiculous!" Sophia countered. "Evelyn wasn't even wearing ear studs today! Maybe you planted it yourself!"

A wounded expression crossed Gabrielle's face. "Why would I hurt myself? That makes no sense."

Sophia rolled her eyes. "Like when you and Benjamin blamed Evelyn for your missing watch without evidence?"

Benjamin opened his mouth to protest but thought better of it.

Recognizing she couldn't win against Nathaniel's niece, Gabrielle turned back to him with a conciliatory smile. "Let's not fight. All I want is an apology from Evelyn, and we can move past this."

Sophia bristled. "Evelyn shouldn't-"

Nathaniel's large hand settled on his niece's shoulder, silencing her.

He stepped forward, his icy gaze pinning Gabrielle. "You want justice? Then who will deliver justice for my wife?"

Gabrielle paled. "Nathaniel... you can't possibly suspect me?"

"I suspect no one," Nathaniel said coolly, his authority radiating through the room. "But I know my wife. She doesn't harm others without cause."