Sanford said nothing, simply pushing a document across the table toward Ste and motioning for her to examine its contents.


    Take a look at this, and youll understand, he said.


    Stes eyes scanned the document, uncovering a grim picture: Doreens father, a chronic gambler prone to violence, had racked up millions in debt, mysteriously cleared in recent days.


    At the same time, her mother had been desperately seeking employment across town.


    After digesting the contents, Ste looked up, her brow furrowed.


    Are you implying Doreens involved? Sanford gave a grim nod.


    Shes your assistant, Ste.


    If anyone had the ess and opportunity to do something shady, its her.


    Ste immediately defended Doreen.


    Thats absurd.


    She wasnt even near me when everything went down, and I havent seen anything suspicious about her.


    You cant use her just because her familys situation improved suddenly. Sanford sighed deeply.


    This isnt about baseless usations.


    Bet handed me this report after investigating people close to you.


    Right now, Doreen seems Like the likeliest suspect.


    I know you trust her, but until we uncover the truth, you need to tread carefully.


    Ste remained quiet, torn between her trust in Doreen and the Logic in Sanfords words.


    Though his reasoning made sense, her heart resisted the idea of betrayal.


    With a heavy heart, she left the restaurant alongside Sanford.


    As they reached the street corner, Sanford hesitated before softly calling her name.


    Looking into her eyes, he spoke with quiet sincerity.


    Ste, dont worry.


    Well uncover the truth.


    Just promise me youll stay vignt and take care of yourself in the meantime. His reassurance, though kind, felt like a refrain she had grown tired of hearing.


    It offered little sce in her storm of uncertainty.


    She gave a small, distracted nod.


    Thanks, Sanford.


    Ill be careful.


    Noticing her weary expression, Sanford felt a twinge of guilt.


    For a moment, he hesitated before asking something unexpected.


    Ste, do you recall anything about your father? Her brows furrowed in confusion.


    My father? Not really.


    Why do you ask? Sanford lowered his gaze, his tone tinged with regret.


    I just..


    I feel I shouldve done more for you. I cant help but feel responsible.


    The self-reproach in his voice stirred something in Ste.


    Her heart softened as she looked at him, a quiet warmth recing her earlier unease.


    Offering a reassuring smile, she said gently, None of this was your fault, Sanford.


    Sometimes things happen beyond anyones control.


    Dont be so hard on yourself.


    After parting ways, Ste returned to the studio.


    Doreen was taken aback when she saw Ste and hurried over, her face etched with concern.


    Ste, youre here.


    Hows everything going with the case? Stes gaze lingered on Doreen for a moment, making the Latter uneasy.


    Doreen asked, her voice tinged with anxiety, Ste, why are you staring at me like that? Snapping out of her thoughts, Ste quickly replied, Its nothing.


    She then shifted the conversation.


    By the way, how have the studios orders been Lately?