Her face flushed as she clutched her hands tightly together, trying to maintain her composure under the scrutinizing stares.
But Mr. Vallahe, who could not bear the humiliation any longer, forced himself to speak up.
His voice quivered slightly, a mix of desperation and anger coloring his words. "This woman is lying!" he declared, his tone unsteady yet defiant.
"She is Esme! I don't believe this nonsense!" His words were loud, but there was a falter in his voice that betrayed his uncertainty, a slight stagger as if even he was struggling to convince himself.
The room remained eerily silent, the echoes of his outburst lingering in the air. The guests exchanged glances, their suspicion deepening.
Even those who might have wanted to believe him found it difficult to ignore the clear evidence Kai had presented, along with the undeniable presence of Rose standing before them.
