Chapter 7 - The Stolen Heirloom
Forty-eight hours before the ceremony, Olivia executed her final move.
While Sophie was upstairs changing Margaret’s bed linens, Olivia slipped into the guest room, removed Margaret’s vintage platinum and sapphire heirloom brooch—given to Margaret on her fiftieth wedding anniversary—and slid it deep into the bottom lining of Sophie’s canvas backpack hanging in the service pantry.
At dinner that evening, Margaret reached for her jewelry box and let out a trembling cry. “My brooch... Arthur’s brooch is gone!”
Olivia gasped dramatically, placing a comforting hand on Margaret’s shoulder. “Grandma, don't worry! I saw Sophie cleaning near your dresser this morning. Let’s not jump to conclusions, but we must check the staff lockers for safety!”
Robert looked at Michael with stern disapproval. “Michael, search the girl’s bag. If it's there, she goes to the precinct tonight.”
Sophie was called into the dining room. When Robert unzipped her backpack and pulled the sparkling sapphire brooch from the bottom seam, Sophie’s knees buckled.
“I didn't take it! Mr. Michael, Mrs. Margaret, I swear on my mother’s life, I have never stolen anything!” Sophie wept, her hands shaking uncontrollably.
Olivia crossed her arms, shaking her head with cold disappointment. “How disgraceful. After everything this family did for you. Michael, call the police and throw her out.”
Michael stood up slowly from the table. He walked over to Sophie, gently took the heirloom brooch from his father's hand, and placed it safely on Margaret’s palm.
He turned to Sophie, his voice steady and calm. “Sophie, take tomorrow off. Get your brother Ethan new clothes, and prepare your finest dress. You and your family are my guests of honor at the cathedral on Saturday.”
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Olivia’s smile froze. “Michael, what are you talking about? She's a thief!”
“We will resolve all debts at the altar, Olivia,” Michael replied with a serene, unreadable smile. “Go get some rest. Saturday is going to be unforgettable.”
