*You people.* Marcus felt his chest tighten. "Mr. Whitmore, I've never taken anything. You can check the cameras."
"The cameras conveniently malfunctioned during your shift. How convenient."
Within an hour, police officers led Marcus out in handcuffs as his co-workers watched in shock. Stephanie had tears in her eyes. The lawyers averted their gazes, already accepting his guilt because it was easier than questioning one of the senior partners.
At Jefferson Middle School, Maya was presenting her science project when the principal appeared at the classroom door. "Maya Thompson, please come with me."
Her teacher, Mrs. Chen, frowned. "She's in the middle of her presentation now."
"Please."
In the hallway, the principal's face was grave. "Maya, your aunt is here to pick you up. There's been a family emergency."
Maya's heart dropped. She had no aunt. Something had happened to Dad.
Her father's friend, Mrs. Washington, waited in the office, her face etched with concern. "Baby girl, your daddy needs you to be strong right now."
"What happened? Is he hurt?"
"He's... they arrested him at work. Said he stole something."
The words hit Maya like a physical blow. Her father—the man who returned extra change at the grocery store, who taught her that integrity meant doing right even when no one was watching—accused of theft.
"That's impossible."
"I know, baby. I know, but they've set bail at $50,000. We're trying to gather money."
"Take me to him."