The punishment

Disgust churned in Bella's stomach. This was the same Olivia who had moments ago been so eager to brand her a thief. Now, cornered and exposed, she craved forgiveness. The thought left a bitter taste in Bella's mouth. Even if she forgave her, there was no guarantee Olivia wouldn't resume her harassment later.

This wasn't a genuine apology, it was a desperate attempt at saving her own skin.

'No way,' Bella thought, her resolve hardening. She knew that forgiving Olivia would only give her the chance to strike again later. She stood her ground, her expression firm and unyielding as she faced Olivia.

"Have you considered letting this matter go earlier?" Bella scoffed. "You were practically marching me to the police station just moments ago. You did everything in your power to paint me a thief. Now you're caught in your own tangled web of lies, and suddenly you expect me to forget everything and offer forgiveness? Why on earth should I?"