The grand main hall remained buried beneath a suffocating silence as hundreds of servants continued standing with lowered heads, none daring to move unnecessarily while the atmosphere grew heavier with every passing second. The chandeliers above cast long golden reflections across the polished floor, yet despite the warmth of the lights, the hall itself felt cold enough that even breathing seemed difficult for many present.
At the very front of the chamber, Damon continued sitting calmly upon the large chair with Cecelia resting quietly upon his lap, while the head butler still stood before them beneath the countless hidden gazes observing the exchange.
Then finally—
The head butler answered.
"I have not stolen anything from the Valecrest family archives."
His voice remained calm and steady despite the pressure surrounding him as he looked directly into Damon's eyes without lowering his gaze.
And Damon looked back at him just as steadily.
For several moments, neither spoke.
