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211words
When he parked in the Thompson garage, he slapped himself hard.
How could I be so blind?
Meanwhile, Lily lounged at home, snacking and humming, confident Ethan wouldn’t fail her.
The moment Lucian entered, she switched off the TV, replacing cheer with tearful distress.
"Lucian! Where’s Ethan? Did you get my jewelry back? Did Sophia deny stealing it?"
Lily clutched his arm, but Lucian shoved her off.
"You seem thrilled about ‘losing’ jewelry. Crumbs on your mouth—appetite’s good?"
Lucian’s voice dripped disgust.
He recognized the chip scent—another act.
"Lucian, what’s wrong? Did Sophia lie to you?"
Lily’s smile faltered under his glare.
"Explain why Mom’s missing jewelry is in your safe!"
Mrs Thompson’s shriek echoed as she stormed in with Ethan, throwing sales records at Lily.
"And who gave you permission to sell my things?"
Lily paled.
"Mom, I—I thought they were outdated! I planned to buy you new pieces!"
"Where are these ‘new pieces’? Show me your bank balance!"
Mrs Thompson trembled with rage.
"We took you in out of guilt for our daughter! And you stole from us?"
"You think you can kick me out?"
Lily snapped, plopping defiantly on the sofa.
"I’m not leaving!"
"Then I’ll call the police!"
