The tension was palpable, and I knew I needed to clear my name.


    With urgency in his tone, Andrewmanded, “Please return to your rooms.


    I will lead an investigation into Keenan’s death.


    I ask that everyone remains in their rooms until this issue is resolved.


    ”


    Debbie, visibly upset by the swift closure of the meeting, protested loudly, “Andrew! You’re clearly shielding the murderer! We have evidence that she’s guilty! How can you continue to be our deputy leader?”


    Andrew gave her a slight frown, signaling his displeasure without engaging further.


    Ignoring Debbie’s continued outbursts, Andrew personally ensured all guests were escorted back to their rooms.


    Shirley was visibly shaken by my apparent exoneration; her eyes bore into me with deep resentment.


    I met her gaze coolly, unbothered by her animosity.


    A fool’s anger did not merit my concern.


    Shirley got more furious.


    Once Andrew had ensured all guests were in their rooms, Shirley approached him, her voice tinged with desperation.


    “Andrew, this affects your reputation.


    How can you just…”


    “Shirley, as you can see, there’s much to handle today.


    I don’t have time to entertain you.


    ” Andrew cut her off sharply.


    “If you have no further business here, I suggest you leave.


    ”


    Shirley’s expression darkened, her eyes stormy and her hands balled into fists as if she was barely holding back her rage.


    It was then that Addy, who had been silent beside her, chimed in, “Andrew, our leader sent us to assist.


    Leaving now would go against her orders.


    We’ll stay until the truth is uncovered and


    report back to her.


    ”


    Mention of the n leaderpelled Andrew to show due respect.


    Thus, he instructed the servant to prepare a guest room for the two visitors so they could rest.


    Shirley opened her mouth to object, but before she could articte her thoughts, Andrew had already entered my room.


    “Andrew!”


    Shirley attempted to follow him, but Andrew closed the door firmly behind him, cutting off any further pursuit.


    “Open the door! Andrew, you’re taking the word of a murderer over Debbie’s! Open the door now!” Shirley shouted, pounding on the door with increasing agitation, her demeanorcking any semnce of the grace expected from the leader’s daughter.


    Momentster, I could hear Addy reprimanding Shirley before their footsteps faded into the distance.


    Inside the room, Andrew turned to me with a grave expression.


    “Debra, I need to know the truth.


    What really happenedst night? Did Keenan try to set you up?”


    The memories of the previous night darkened my mood.


    Knowing it was necessary for uncovering the truth, I recounted everything that urred after Shirley deliberately spilled wine on my dress.


    As I concluded, Caleb said sharply, “Shirley orchestrated the wine spill.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    It’s clear the waiter and Keenan were part of her scheme.


    ”