Chapter 24

The commotion in the boutique escalated as the shopkeeper returned with the manager, a stern-looking man with a clipped tone. Ava stood frozen in disbelief as the manager approached, his eyes narrowing in contempt.

“What’s going on here?” the manager demanded, looking at Ava with disdain.

“This woman,” the shopkeeper pointed at Ava, “was found with these earrings in her bag. She’s a thief.”

“Excuse me, what is happening here?” John Tyson’s authoritative voice cut through the tension. He entered the store, followed closely by Davies, both of them clearly disturbed by the uproar.

The manager’s expression shifted to one of shock and recognition.

“Mr. Tyson, I apologize for any inconvenience. But this woman was caught in a shameful act,” the manager insisted, pointing at Ava.

"No she wasn't!" Liam yelled back. "I was with Ava the entire time. She's innocent uncle John!" Liam protested.

"Ava what's this nonsense? What have you done?!" Davies questioned.

"I didn't do anything. I don't--I d