Karina's chest tightened, but she knew that if she caved this time, there would be no end to it.

"I have nothing to hide. Say whatever you want. I trust the truth will come out."

Kieran's face contorted with rage, his eyes burning with humiliation at her defiance. He swung his arm violently, knocking over the table beside him. Cups and plates shattered against the floor, the sharp crash echoing through the cramped room. "Karina! Don't think you can just walk out of here! I won't let you get away with this!"

The outburst was like a lit match to a powder keg, and several other members of the Stone family quickly joined in, their voices rising with accusations.

A burly middle-aged man with a thick neck and a menacing scowl stormed forward, his voice booming, "Karina, you've been mooching off this family for years-eating our food, living under our roof. And now you think you can just walk away? Not a chance!" He stormed forward and grabbed Karina roughly by the collar, lifting her so her toes barely touched the ground.

Karina gasped, her breathing shallow, but her voice remained steady as she glared at him. "This is illegal. You're holding me against my will. Let me go!"

"Illegal? This is family business!" the man shot back angrily. "You caused Tara's death. You owe us, and you're going to take responsibility!"

man's wrist, his voice cold and cutting. "Let her go.

by Wilfred's calm authority, though he tried to save face. "Who

he spoke, enunciating every word. "I'm her boss. I won't stand by and let my employee be bullied like this. Do you think strength in numbers lets you act with impunity? In the eyes of

realizing the situation was spiraling out of control. He tugged at the man's

back, her breath shaky, but Wilfred

straightened her clothes, inhaled deeply, and turned

guilty about Tara's death for years, but it was

will hold him accountable. If any of you

steps unfaltering despite the furious shouts and

Karina's composure began to crack.

and reassuring. "Don't worry. They won't

racing. "I need to gather evidence to expose Kieran's guilt. It's the only way to free myself from

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