Chapter 621

"Scented candles?" Lily's attention flickered. She understood Henry implied a problem. "I made them for Grandpa," she said calmly. "He had insomnia, so I prepared the candles to help him sleep. What's wrong with them?"

"Wrong?" Henry sneered. "Your candle sent your grandfather to his eternal rest!"

"You mean there was a problem with the candles?" Lily asked directly, cutting through his theatrics. "Wouldn't you know if there was a problem?" Her words dripped with sarcasm mirroring his own.

Lily glanced at the elders. Their silence spoke volumes; they either agreed with Henry, or remained neutral, unwilling to take sides. No one dared offer an opinion that might incur disfavor. Most significantly, Justin remained silent, kneeling before the memorial, his impassive expression suggesting detachment. The burden of this battle rested solely on Lily.

"The candles had no issues when I made them," Lily retorted, a sneer playing on her lips. "As for what happened afterward, I have no idea." Even if there were problems with the candles, it didn't automatically implicate her. Many people frequented the Lodge residence. A disgruntled servant could have easily tampered with them. Yet, the family refused to accept her explanation.

"Hmph, eloquent, and good at shirking responsibility," Henry scoffed. "Roger has served the Lodge family for years, longer than you. Are you saying he poisoned Grandpa?" He paused, then continued, "Oh, and I heard Justin took the candles from you. Is that right? Or is it neither you nor Roger, but…"

Henry's gaze shifted to the kneeling Justin, a chilling smile curving his lips. He didn't need to finish his sentence; everyone understood.

Lily froze, understanding dawning. Justin's silence, Henry's accusation—it was all a calculated maneuver. If she didn't confess, suspicion would fall on Roger or Justin, a burden Justin couldn't afford. It was preposterous.