Sally shook her head and explained, âNo, itâs not about you.
I made a mistake.
â
She sighed and leaned closer to Lucinda, speaking in a hushed tone.
âLucinda, Iâll share a secret with you, but promise me it will stay between us.
â
Lucinda nodded seriously and assured her, âYou can trust me.
I wonât tell anyone.
â
Sally believed her and then went on, âYesterday, I couldnât resist my curiosity and snooped around Noelleâs room.
And guess what I discovered?â
Lucindaâs expression grew more serious as she inquired, âWhat did you see?â
âShe was not in her room!â
Lucinda furrowed her brow and whispered, âBut your brother said Noelle was sick and recovering at home.
How could her room be empty?
Did you see your brother take her somewhere?â
Sally asserted confidently, âNo, she canât have left the house.
Iâve been home every day, and I havenât seen her go out.
She must still be there.
â
She glanced around cautiously and shared in a low voice, âIn the last couple of days, heâs hired more bodyguards to watch the top floor.
I suspect something is wrong with Noelle.
Either heâs keeping her locked up, or she might have some rare contagious illness that requires isolation.
â
Upon hearing this, Lucindaâs worry for Noelle deepened.
She had originally intended to discreetly slip the crystal earrings into Sallyâs bag.
However, Sally had shown her genuine friendship and trust.
If she went through with her plan, it would shatter their relationship entirely.
So she hesitated.
Sally, noticing Lucindaâs absentmindedness, tilted her head and asked, âLucinda, what are you thinking about?â
After a brief pause, Lucinda raised her gaze to meet Sallyâs and made a daring decision.
âSally, I sense your curiosity about Noelleâs situation.
I have a way you can see her.
â
Sally blinked innocently.
Her interest seemed to be piqued.
âWhat way?â
Lucinda whispered her plan into Sallyâs ear, causing her face to darken with worry.
âLucinda, I canât do that.
If my brother finds out, heâll kill me!â
Lucinda reassured her, patting her hand gently.
âDonât be scared.