Nidya Hughes was the first to recover her composure, feigning calmness in her response: "Mrs. Salt, Miss Salt, I'm really sorry that we couldn't attend Miss Salt's birthday banquet. Zora and I had been to Holy City recently, and we didn't have time to make it back. My father declined a few banquets on our behalf, so we planned to invite you two as an apology as soon as we returned!"
"Mrs. Salt, what you mentioned earlier really has nothing to do with us. We have not been in Libanan these past few days, so how could we possibly frame your daughter? As for being detained, that's pure nonsense. I hope everyone won't recklessly speculate!"
Nidya Hughes spoke with a serious tone, but her eyes lacked confidence, and her breathing was slightly shaky. However, she had to deny the accusations and warn everyone against wild guessing.
The noblewomen and their daughters looked at them contemptuously. If they were in the dark, they might actually believe Nidya's words.
