A spark of clarity hit me. After steadying my mom, I approached the officer, "Officer, I'd like to report a theft, she stole the money!" I pointed directly at Tara, my gaze unwavering.
A flicker of panic crossed Tara's face before she plastered on an innocent look, "Olivia, you may have freedom of speech, but you need evidence to back your accusations! I was just trying to help Mrs. Royce and Thomas. Pointing fingers at me out of nowhere, don't you think that's unfair?"
I leaned closer, smiling faintly, "My mom's phone went missing the day before our engagement. You're the one who returned it."
Tara grabbed Thomas's sleeve anxiously, "Thomas, you were there that day. Shouldn't I return a lost phone to its owner?"
Murmurs rippled through the crowd, "She even returned the phone and is now being accused? Talk about biting the hand that feeds you. It's hard to be a good person nowadays!"
Thomas's eyes bore into mine with disappointment, "Haven't you had enough of this nonsense? Can't you just return the money? I never said I wouldn't marry you!" His words stunned me.
"You seriously think I'd still marry you?" I asked back. Thomas was visibly flustered, his face turning crimson.