"Mr. Jefferson, I made a few calls," the lawyer said, clearing his throat. "That 16th-century Italian vase? It was purchased at auction by the richest man in the Capital City. He gave it to his daughter to use as a flower vase."

And just like that, Oliver's entire face lit up with a smug little smirk, as if he had just scored the winning touchdown he'd been waiting for.

Kiara strutted over, picked up the vase with two fingers like it was a cheap flea market find, and examined it with a sneer.

"Wow, Therese. You really went all out with the appearances. Even your high-end knockoffs are almost believable."

But just as she was basking in her own sarcasm, the lawyer frowned and stepped closer. He adjusted his gold-rimmed glasses, leaning in as if preparing to inspect the vase more closely.

Without warning, Kiara raised her hand. With a swift motion, she crashed the vase onto the floor. The sound of it shattering echoed through the room, the priceless 16th-century porcelain reduced to mere shards.

I stood frozen. My brain just blanked.

Even Oliver flinched, clearly not expecting that.

He spun on her, stunned. "Kiara, are you insane? Even if it was fake, that thing still cost money!"

Of course, she instantly turned on the waterworks.

Lip trembling and voice quivering, Kiara replied, "Sir Oliver, I just thought if Therese can't pay you back, I'd help you vent a little by smashing one of her fake antiques. Why are you yelling at me?"

Right in front of me, without a shred of shame, Oliver reached out and wiped away her phony tears, cooing over her like she was some delicate, wronged princess.

"I'm not blaming you, sweetheart," Oliver calmly replied. "I just wanted the $500,000 back so I could buy you a small apartment. My best employee deserves the best."

Then he turned toward me, puffed up and smug.

"I hope someone here understands the difference between the two of you and signs the papers already. Because, believe me, the line of women wanting to be my wife could wrap around this entire city."

I stared at him like he'd completely lost his mind.

Then I scoffed, "Oliver, maybe try figuring out who actually spent that $500 grand before you run your mouth. Or else, there will be a line of people ready to drain your wallet. It might even wrap around the whole Bayport City."