Chapter 3 — The Necklace Nobody Expected
Margaret refused to surrender.
She immediately demanded the police continue investigating Mariana for stealing the emerald necklace.
"If we ruin her reputation," she whispered, "she'll negotiate."
Hours later...
The lead investigator entered the mansion carrying a sealed evidence bag.
Andrew smiled.
Finally.
Something was going their way.
The investigator placed a velvet pouch on the table.
"We found the necklace."
Margaret sighed with relief.
"I knew she took it."
The investigator looked directly at Brenda.
"It was recovered from your apartment."
Silence.
Brenda's face turned white.
"What?"
The investigator removed several printed security images.
One photograph showed Brenda quietly placing the necklace inside her own handbag during the charity gala.
Another showed her entering Mariana's bedroom later that evening.
Andrew stared at the evidence.
His breathing slowed.
"You..."
Brenda shook her head frantically.
"I can explain."
"No."
Andrew whispered.
"You planned everything."
May you like
The woman he had trusted most...
Had carefully destroyed his marriage.
