Jill approached, concern etched across her features. "Has Sallie grown angry with you over me?"
Guilt radiated from her expression, as though she couldn't fathom what had gone awry. "If this concerns the birthday celebration, I'm prepared to clarify everything. I'll even offer an apology for Salome's behavior."
She deliberately omitted how the authorities had detained Sallie at the event, saying nothing about the false accusations. Her goal was appearing gracious and forgiving, making Sallie seem petty for creating drama over trivial matters.
Predictably, her words derailed Webster completely.
He hurried to soothe Jill. "Don't feel distressed. This isn't your fault. Sallie—"
His words cut off abruptly. Truth was, he couldn't pinpoint what Sallie had actually done wrong. He'd spoken only because Jill appeared ready to weep.
