Instant enlightenment washed over everyone.
Xavier Jewelers had orchestrated this with intent. They had vandalized their own stores, causing people to point fingers at Aurora Jewelers. In doing so, they not only crafted the image of a beleaguered underdog but also tarnished the reputation of Aurora Jewelers. It was a cunning stratagem, killing two birds with one stone!
“Xavier Jewelers displays an astonishing lack of shame! Given their actions, one might wonder why they chose to operate a jewelry company instead of a criminal enterprise."
The collective anger of the senior executives was palpable.
In a measured tone, Lilah remarked, "We should not jump to conclusions just yet. Do we know where the individual who vandalized the stores is?"
“At the police station," came the reply.
“Very well, I shall pay him a visit," Lilah responded.
Following the meeting, Lilah retreated to her office, delving into the identity of the vandal.
She discovered that the culprit was an unemployed man who had recently lost his job and resided in an impoverished village.
Despite being over 40 years old, he remained unable to afford a home.
In the past two years, he had married and welcomed a daughter into his life. Tragically, the child had fallen seriously ill this year.
As Lilah perused these documents, a pensive expression overtook her.
Aurora Jewelers, once having witnessed an upward trajectory in sales, now grappled with an influx of refunds and a chorus of disgruntled customers. Their customer service department bore the brunt of this turmoil.
Conversely, Xavier Jewelers was experiencing a significant surge in their fortunes.
At six o'clock in the evening, Lilah arrived at the police station.
"I wish to see Elton Padilla," she calmly stated.
The police officer responded, "I'm sorry but he's not allowed any visitors at the moment."
Lilah's brow furrowed as she inquired, “May I ask why?"
With evident impatience, the officer dismissed her with, "I said he cannot have visitors. There's no need for further questions."
A chill emanated from the depths of Lilah's gaze, her suspicion resting firmly upon the police officer. She speculated that he might have been swayed by a bribe.
Just as she prepared to voice her concerns, the officer's demeanor underwent an abrupt transformation. A warm smile graced his face, and he inquired, "Mr. Harris! Why didn't you inform me beforehand? How may I be of service? I'll summon the chief immediately!"
Lilah swiveled her head to behold a man entering the room, bathed in a resplendent aura as if a deity had descended.
“Inform him," Gerard uttered, his tone as frosty as ever.
He looked like he had something to discuss with the police chief.