"I'm the head of the Christmas committee. I organized the event. If something goes wrong, I'm the first person investigated. Why would I sabotage my own event?"
I turned to Caroline, who was peeking out from behind Dominic's arm.
"And you. If you wanted to frame me, you should have covered your tracks better."
"What do you mean?" Caroline snapped.
But her eyes darted nervously.
I pulled out my phone, connected it to the waiting room TV via Bluetooth, and hit play.
"I have the surveillance footage."
The screen flickered to life.
The room went silent.
Everyone watched as Caroline Henson—clear as day—checked to make sure the coast was clear. Pulled the box of mushrooms from her coat. Dumped them into the pot.
She even stirred it.
Undeniable.
The silence shattered.
"You lying little witch!"
The tattooed father didn't hesitate. He bypassed me and launched himself at Caroline. Other parents joined the frenzy—slapping, pulling hair, screaming.
"Dominic! Help me!" Caroline screeched.
Dominic threw himself into the chaos, shielding her with his own body.
"Stop! Get back!" he shouted.
A punch meant for Caroline caught him square on the jaw.
I watched him defend her with such desperation.