The next evening, Mira knew something was wrong the moment she walked in the door.
The family hadn't eaten. Mara was crying again, with Mr. and Mrs. Mercer flanking her. Ethan and Damon stared grimly at Mira as she entered.
"What are you looking at me for? Did she pull another stunt?"
"Did you take Mara's diamond ring?" Ethan asked, his face dark.
"If you're going to accuse me, bring some evidence. Or call the police. Otherwise, shut your mouth. You just don't give up, do you?"
Mira turned and headed for the stairs, planning to wash up and change.
"I know you're short on money, but that diamond ring was a gift from Mom. It can't be lost. Did you sell it? How else could you afford such an expensive performance gown?"
"Is that all you've got? Are you running out of tricks? Last time it was a bracelet, this time a ring. What's next, a necklace and earrings?"
Mira sighed. She wanted to ignore them, but her fighting skills weren't good enough yet. Overpowering her brothers was still out of the question for now. So, as long as she lived in the Mercer house, she couldn't be too reckless.
Resigned, Mira walked back to the coffee table to confront them.
"I know you're holding a grudge because I didn't give up my spot in the finals, but if you're going to make accusations, you need proof."
"Don't say that, I'm not accusing you, I'm not, I'm not... sniffle..." Before she could finish, Mara burst into sobs.
"Mira, if you took it, just give it back. We won't punish you, okay?" Ethan Mercer couldn't stand seeing Mara cry.
Mira looked at Ethan as if he were an idiot. "Time and place?"


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