Alexa made her accusation with sharp clarity, turning to address the assembled guests. Her posture was one of unshakable conviction.

"The Sterling family's reputation in Crestwood is beyond reproach. Our business empire is vast and respected. What possible motive could we have for falsely accusing a guest? We have thoroughly examined the security footage from this evening. It clearly shows this woman taking Miss Sterling's bracelet. If she returns it now, we are prepared to handle this discreetly."

Her words sent a ripple of murmurs through the crowd.

"She's right. The Sterlings have no reason to lie."

Eyes turned to Evelyn. "Can you prove your innocence? Why are you so quiet? Does your silence mean you're guilty?"

"Defend yourself if you're innocent!"

Whispers grew louder. "I've never seen an accused thief stay so silent."

"Has she been struck dumb?"

Amid the stares and hushed comments, Evelyn remained perfectly composed. Then, a low, soft laugh escaped her.

That quiet sound captured the room's attention completely. For a moment, she was the sole focus, eclipsing even the guest of honor, Amelia. Alexa, visibly irritated by the reaction, demanded, "What is so amusing?" Her face showed clear annoyance. She felt secure in publicly shaming Evelyn, confident that Evelyn had no effective defense.

Under this kind of pressure, Evelyn would likely only humiliate herself further.

The actual truth of the theft was irrelevant now.

Evelyn cast a cold glance at Alexa. "I'm laughing at the sheer audacity of this farce. Do you truly believe such a clumsy scheme will work on me?"

A flicker of panic crossed Alexa's eyes, but she quickly steeled herself. "Audacity? How dare you! I have simply stated the facts. The footage shows you taking the item—"

Evelyn cut her off with a raised hand. "Then show the footage."

Alexa snorted dismissively. "Come with us, and you can see your crime for yourself."

Evelyn arched an eyebrow. "How curious. Why not display it here for everyone to see?"

Alexa was ready with her reply. "The guests here are distinguished individuals. We will not waste their valuable time on a matter concerning someone as insignificant as you."

Her gaze turned hard. "Stop causing a scene. Just come with us."

She gestured for security to seize Evelyn. Evelyn's smile turned icy.

It was clear they were determined to force a confession for a crime she didn't commit.

As several large bodyguards moved forward, Evelyn stepped back swiftly. She grabbed a wine bottle from a nearby table. Without hesitation, she smashed it onto the floor.

The sound of shattering glass exploded through the room.

Wine splashed across the polished floor. Shards of glass scattered in every direction.

The violent commotion jerked every head in the room toward her. The guests stared at Evelyn, utterly shocked.