CHAPTER 171

It hit him like a ton of bricks: they suspected him of being the culprit. The recent windfall from his lottery win had put him under a spotlight, casting doubt on his innocence.

Caleb's eyes darted between his friends, a mix of irritation and hurt in his gaze as he disregarded the stares from the rest of the group. Focusing on Tommy and Jake, he analyzed their faces closely.

"Did you bring up the lottery earlier because you believed I might have been involved in the theft?" he inquired with a tinge of bitterness, his disappointment palpable in his voice.

Caleb was struck by a wave of pain that cut deep into his heart. It was disheartening to see others hold such a low opinion of him, but what hurt the most was that his closest friends would accuse him of such a thing. Tommy's eyes widened in surprise, clearly taken aback by the accusation.

"Oh no, Caleb, that's not what we meant at all," Tommy quickly interjected, his voice filled with genuine concern.

"I wasn't doubting you, I was s