Once Thomas finished explaining, the focus turned to Seraphina's attire, accessories, and purse. Her affluence and grace were unmistakable. The notion of someone like her committing theft felt implausible, leading to suspicion falling on the assistant instead. Everyone focused on her. The assistant tensed beneath their stares, and her face burned with shame and annoyance. She retorted, "I didn't steal anything, and I'm not making baseless accusations! Her wealth doesn't eliminate potential temptations!" Thomas' frown deepened at the remark. It struck a nerve, though he couldn't quite place why. "You're right. Being rich doesn't mean I couldn't have taken it. However, I don't like being accused without proof," Seraphina replied, her tone steady. She held out her purse, maintaining her poise. "Go ahead, check it yourself. See if the mask is inside." Her calmness was disarming, and the staff around them began questioning their earlier assumptions. The assistant paused, moving towards the bag but then withdrawing. "You should empty it yourself," she requested curtly. Seraphina silently unzipped the bag, preparing to empty its contents. Just as she was about to do so, a pair of hands gently but firmly stopped her. Startled, she looked up and found Thomas standing close, his hands firmly on hers. His expression was sharp and cold, but his gaze on her was surprisingly gentle. He stated quietly, "There's no need for that." Thomas didn't waver for a second—he knew she wasn't the thief. He straightened, giving a sharp glance around the room. "If you have the mask, show it now, and I'll let it pass. Don't think I'll go easy on you if I have to search for it myself."Thomas rarely lost his temper, but when he did, someone always paid the price. Michael stepped forward, his tone serious but less icy. "This is your one chance. Make it count." Thomas' sharp eyes moved through the room, leaving no doubt about his authority. To him, accusing Seraphina or searching her belongings wasn't just an affront to her—it was a direct challenge to his judgment. She was his guest, and there was no way he would allow her to be wrongfully accused under his watch. The staff shared anxious looks, whispering to one another. Why is Thomas so determined to protect her? Seraphina stood quietly behind him, watching how he shielded her. His tall, steady figure felt like a barrier of protection, and his firm grip on her purse radiated quiet confidence. As she looked at him, warmth began to rise in her chest. She thought, In my past life, no one ever stood up for me—not even my own family. Whenever I faced injustice or pain, they would either blame me or brush it off like it didn't matter. And now, here's someone I barely know—a complete stranger—defending me without hesitation. It's so ironic. The care and support I've longed for from the people closest to me has come from someone I've only just met. She gazed at Thomas, tears forming in her eyes for the first time in ages. So this is what it's like to have someone on your side. It feels… really nice.