“Your cousin’s daughter is causing a scene,” Sandra said. “Making baseless accusations.”
Sophie stepped closer. “It’s not baseless. If it’s real, let someone check.”
The crowd murmured. A tall woman in a silver dress stepped forward. “I work in a jewelry store,” she said. “If you don’t mind, I can help verify.”
Zarah hesitated. She looked between her mother and Sandra, clearly displeased with the chaos but more annoyed that it reflected badly on her. “Fine. Go ahead.”
Sandra stepped back. “There’s no need—”
“Too late,” Zarah cut in.
The woman examined the necklace closely, lifting it, inspecting the clasp, even rubbing it slightly. The crowd leaned in.
“This isn’t real gold,” she finally said. “It’s plated. Good quality, but not solid gold.”
Sandra’s mouth opened and closed like a
