Chapter 102

‘I didn’t break it,’ Harper retorted. ‘You can check the security footage.’ The assistant, probably afraid she’d be the one forced to pay for the damage if the truth came out, tried to shift the blame. ‘You were bending it too hard. I was trying to stop you.’ ‘Funny,’ Elodie interjected, ‘because from where I stand, it looks like your “helpful intervention” is the reason the clasp is askew.’ She turned to the manager lurking at the back of the store. ‘Perhaps you can enlighten us, Mr Manager? Is harassing and assaulting potential customers part of your customer service policy?’ The manager, a portly man in an ill-fitting suit, said arrogantly, ‘Miss, I’m sure there must be a misunderstanding. June’s been working here for almost a year. She wouldn’t—’ ‘Misunderstanding?’ Elodie’s voice dipped to a dangerous octave. ‘My cousin inquires about a bracelet, asks to try it on, and gets accosted like a common thief. Is that your idea of a luxury shopping experience?’ The assistant, emboldened