“I have searched for that piece of jewelry for twenty two years,” he said through clenched teeth. “It vanished the night my wife died. Do not insult me with lies.”
Guests retreated to the edges of the room. Some recorded on phones. Others watched in frightened fascination. The restaurant manager hurried forward, sweat glistening on his brow.
“Mr. Vale, please accept my apologies,” the manager said quickly. “This employee is new. If she has caused offense, she will be dismissed immediately. Vanessa, hand over the necklace and leave before security is called.”
He grabbed her arm. Vanessa winced. Before he could drag her away, Gregory caught the manager’s wrist with a grip that made him gasp.
“Release her,” Gregory said calmly. “If you touch her again, your contract with this hotel ends tonight.”
The manager let go at once and stumbled backward.
Gregory turned back to Vanessa. They stood close enough that she could see the tired lines around his eyes, the grief hidden behind his fury.
“Give me the necklace,” he said, extending his hand. “I will not ask again.”
Vanessa shook her head slowly.