Isabella nodded. “Thank you, Mrs. Sterling. I’ll think about it carefully.”

A wave of relief softened Charlotte’s expression. Her smile was gentle. “Don’t stay here by yourself. Go enjoy the party.”

Isabella held the card between her fingers. The elegant script read: Olivia Sterling, Silverwood Estate.

She knew the name. Silverwood Estate was legendary for its exclusivity. It sat just outside the city. Olivia Sterling was a globally recognized investor. Her reputation was formidable.

Isabella tucked the card safely into her pocket.

Meanwhile, tension filled Sophia’s apartment. She paced relentlessly. Her movements were sharp with frustration.

Turning herself in sounded like a joke. Her fingers tightened around her phone. Her manicured nails pressed into her palm.

A sudden knock broke the silence.

Sophia stopped. She forced herself to appear calm.

She walked to the door and checked the peephole. Two police officers stood outside. Her heart sank. A cold dread spread through her.

She put on a polite smile and opened the door. “Officers, what can I do for you?”

“Miss Reed, we need to speak with you regarding a matter. Your cooperation is required,” one officer stated. His tone was formal and firm.

Sophia’s smile stiffened. She stepped aside to let them in. “Of course. Please, come in.”

She closed the door behind them. Panic surged, but she fought it down. She led them gracefully into the living room and gestured toward the sofa.

“How can I help?”

One officer showed his badge. “We have received reports implicating you in the theft of a Rosalia Pink Diamond. We need your assistance with our investigation.”

Sophia’s polite expression froze into shock. Her eyes widened in disbelief. “Theft? That’s absurd! There must be some mistake!”

“Miss Reed, we must insist on your full cooperation,” the officer replied firmly. There was no room for argument.

Sophia clenched her fists. Resisting was pointless now.

“I’ll cooperate.”

The officers began a thorough search of her apartment. They went through every corner. The air grew thick and tense.

The crackling fire was the only sound in the darkening room.

“Miss Reed, what is this?” an officer asked. He pulled a black velvet box from her bedroom safe.

Sophia went completely still.

The officer opened the box. Inside lay a sparkling pink diamond.

It was the missing Rosalia Pink Diamond.