Chapter 12 - The Diamond Trap
|
Before David could reach Marcus, a loud commotion erupted from the grand foyer downstairs.
Three uniformed police officers, accompanied by Victoria’s high-priced attorney, Mr. Abernathy, were standing inside the entrance hall. Arthur the butler was standing beside them, looking pale and nervous.
Marcus came walking down the grand staircase, his eyes cold and dangerous. "What is the meaning of this intrusion, Abernathy?"
"Mr. Vance," Abernathy declared smoothly, holding up a signed search warrant. "My client, Mrs. Victoria Vance, filed a formal report this morning regarding a stolen family heirloom—the Vance Empress Diamond Necklace, valued at five hundred thousand dollars."
"That necklace is secured inside my private study safe," Marcus stated coldly.
"Is it?" Abernathy smiled sneeringly. "An hour ago, Mr. Arthur here contacted our legal team, claiming he saw your maid, Elena, carrying a suspicious jewelry pouch out of your study late last night."
Elena, walking down the stairs behind David, stopped in shock. "What?! That's a lie! I never touched any necklace!"
Arthur kept his eyes fixed on the floor, his voice trembling as he spoke to the officers. "I... I saw her, Officers. She slipped into the master study while Mr. Vance was in a virtual board meeting."
"This is ridiculous!" Marcus shouted, stepping between the officers and Elena. "Elena has complete access to my home! She doesn't need to steal anything!"
"Search her room," Officer Hayes ordered, pulling out his gloves. "Under the terms of this emergency warrant, we have the right to search the staff quarters immediately."
Two officers marched toward the east wing. Five minutes later, one of the officers returned carrying a small velvet box. He popped the latch open, revealing a glittering multi-carat diamond necklace resting on dark blue velvet.
May you like
"We found this hidden inside Miss Elena's closet wardrobe," the officer announced firmly.
Victoria’s attorney smirked triumphantly. "Well, well. It seems your innocent little maid is nothing more than a common thief, Mr. Vance."
