The students stared at Caleb with disgust, their eyes shifting between him and the pouch on his desk. Whispers and pointed fingers only deepened the collective disdain. Many had always harbored suspicions about Caleb, simply because he was poor. Yet, in the last few months, something had changed. Caleb had started spending money freely, treating classmates to dinners in expensive restaurants, flaunting an attitude of newfound confidence. The sudden shift was startling. Now, with Jane's pouch found among his belongings, the students were convinced their suspicions were confirmed. To them, Caleb's recent spending spree must have been funded by stolen money from the college. The atmosphere was thick with judgment, the air filled with murmurs and pointed looks. No one seemed to remember the Caleb who once struggled quietly. Instead, they saw only the image of a thief, their minds made up by the damning evidence before them. "I can't believe it!" another student exclaimed, shock evident

As Caleb began to walk out of the classroom, Professor Hanks reached out and grabbed his hand, stopping him in his tracks. Her eyes were filled with a mix of concern and disbelief."Caleb," she said softly but firmly, "I need you to tell me the truth. Did you steal that money?"Caleb looked down at her hand gripping his and then met her gaze. He could see the earnest plea in her eyes, the hope that he wasn't guilty. He took a deep breath, his expression calm and resolute."No, Professor Hanks," he replied quietly. "I didn't steal the money."Professor Hanks studied his face for a long moment, searching for any hint of deceit. Finally, she released his hand with a sigh, a flicker of hope still lingering in her eyes."Alright, Caleb," she said firmly, her grip still strong on his hand. "But don't stay silent like you did here. You need to defend yourself clearly when you see the headmaster. Speak the truth and avoid any unnecessary remarks. I'll do everything in my power to support you,