No way! Anastasia has suffered from chronic poisoning for years! Ree was just a child then; what would she know about poisons? Moreover, Ree and Tasia weren't close and rarely interacted.

"Why would she poison Anastasia? Don't scare me! That's a serious crime!" Maria's expression changed.

"What did he say? Ree poisoned his daughter? Oh, please! I know Ree well. Though she has a fiery temper and isn't close to me, she's kind and intelligent. How could Cameron falsely accuse her? I'll never believe it!"

"Mom's right. Uncle Cameron, are you mistaken? Or did you hear slander?" Rhea asked seriously, sitting calmly with a serene smile. She looked like any obedient student, a stark contrast to Cameron's description.

"Who told you I poisoned Anastasia?" Rhea repeated.

"That's right. Who said that?" Maria exclaimed, believing someone was trying to damage their family. "Cameron, don't let others provoke you. We're family!"

"Let me guess. Lily?" Rhea glanced at Anastasia and smiled. "Anastasia's been spending a lot of time with her lately, and trusts her, but... we have a history. We worked at the same institute, but she left after a conflict. I stayed, and she resents me for it."

"Oh! You two had a falling out!" Maria realized, clutching her daughter's hand. "Silly girl, why didn't you tell me? I can't bear to see this happen to you!"

"Did I say who it was? You're speculating," Cameron retorted coldly, his hatred evident. "You know what you did! If Anastasia didn't consider you family, would you be sitting here?"

Rhea stood firm. "Uncle Cameron, that's harsh. If you have proof, call the police. If not, I object to these accusations."

Fabian interjected, "Ree's right! Cameron, you can't do this! You can disregard me, but Ree's innocent!"

"Exactly! Anastasia stayed with us when she was younger. Ask her how I treated her! I'd never treat Ree this way. You're framing a girl based on hearsay. Your wife wouldn't approve!" Maria wailed, turning to Anastasia. "Anastasia, do you think Ree is capable of this? Won't you feel guilty for slandering your cousin?"

"Aunt Maria, I convinced Dad not to imprison Rhea because I still consider her family, and because of Uncle Fabian and you. However, Ree refuses to admit her actions," Anastasia sighed sadly.

"Anastasia, you..."