At this moment, those who were speaking up for Francine Howards have fallen silent; upon reflection, they realize they've been used as pawns by this woman, and the problem is they've helped her without gaining any benefits, almost losing their money!
As they realize this, they shiver and look at Francine with a different gaze, one laced with anger.
Francine's face turns even redder. "I... I didn't use them as pawns!"
"How could you not?" Mabel Quinn sneers. "If you weren't trying to drag everyone in, you could have just said I was targeting you, without implying I'd get rid of you today and others tomorrow. What are you trying to achieve with such words, if not to drag everyone into the mess?"
Everyone thinks this over and agrees it makes sense, showing more disapproval towards Francine.
