Chapter 538



Sophie frantically shook her head, cowering behind Kallie. Her voice was a frightened whisper. “Mommy, she’s not telling the truth. I didn’t break anything. I was right behind you the whole time.”

A shadow fell over Kallie’s expression. She leveled her gaze at Saniya. “Saniya, if you’re going to make such serious accusations, you need to have proof. You can’t just blame someone without evidence.”

Saniya’s lip quivered as she pointed directly at Sophie. “It was definitely her! She told me she was jealous of my beautiful things and yanked the box out of my hands. I didn’t even see it coming. The next thing I knew, the box was on the floor. How can a child harbor so much spite?”

Sophie was on the verge of tears. “Mommy, I swear it wasn’t me.”

Ignoring Saniya’s accusations, Kallie calmly surveyed the room, seeking validation. “Did anyone see Sophie anywhere near her?”

Debbie hesitated before speaking. “From my perspective, Sophie was always a step behind you, Kallie. It’s likely just a misunderstanding.”

Frustrated, Saniya snapped, “Someone snatched the box right out of my hands! These items were gifts from my boyfriend. They’re expensive! Why would I break them myself?”

Debbie, lacking concrete evidence, shot a concerned look at Kallie. As merely a college student, Debbie often felt overshadowed by the more assertive personalities around her.

Elaine was at a loss. She hadn’t seen Sophie approach Saniya, but Saniya’s account sounded convincing. Perhaps the incident had slipped past her. After all, Sophie might have snatched the box when no one was paying attention.

Due to Saniya’s usual kindness, Elaine found it difficult to question her integrity. Mentally chastising herself for her momentary doubts about Saniya, Elaine stepped forward and cleared her throat.

“Sophie is just a child, and it’s natural for children to be a bit unruly,” Elaine said diplomatically. “Saniya is understandably upset. Sophie apparently misbehaved and refused to apologize. That’s not proper behavior. Kallie, as her mother, it’s your responsibility to guide her. Apologize to Saniya. While she’s angry now, your apology might defuse the situation.”

Kallie’s face darkened. “Indeed, proper guidance is essential.” She caressed Sophie’s hair gently as the girl blinked back tears.

“Mommy, I truly didn’t do it. Do you trust me?” Sophie asked hesitantly, her eyes filled with desperation.

Kallie’s stern expression softened into a warm smile. “Of course, my love. I know you well. And remember, you should never apologize if you’re not at fault. Do you understand?”

Sophie nodded, tears clinging to her lashes, while Saniya’s eyes widened in shock. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she clutched Elaine’s hand tightly.

Speculative whispers filled the air:

“Oh, goodness. Can you believe how she’s raising her child?”

“What kind of adult will this little girl turn into? Despite her cute appearance now, with such a shameless mother…”

“Maybe the child really is innocent. I’ve seen the replay, and she’s consistently polite.”

“Like mother, like daughter. Always pretending. They’re utterly insincere.”

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