Chapter 8 – Bianca Learns the Truth
Bianca drove straight to her mother's penthouse.
The front door stood open.
Police officers filled the living room.
Celeste sat calmly on the sofa while investigators searched every cabinet.
"Mom!"
Celeste looked up.
"Don't say anything," she warned.
Bianca ignored her.
"They're saying you framed Clara."
Silence.
"You told me Clara was a thief."
Still silence.
Bianca's breathing quickened.
"Tell me they're lying."
Celeste slowly lowered her eyes.
"I did what I had to do."
Bianca stepped backward as though struck.
"You destroyed an innocent woman."
"I protected our future."
"You ruined mine."
Celeste stood.
"You were going to marry Adrian."
"Exactly."
Bianca's voice broke.
"You made sure the man I loved would hate me forever."
For the first time in years, Celeste looked uncertain.
She had expected anger.
She hadn't expected heartbreak.
Bianca removed the diamond earrings her mother had given her years ago.
She placed them on the table.
May you like
"I'm done protecting your lies."
Then she walked out without looking back.
