Chapter 259: Theo Marsh Asked with a Furrowed Brow

"Do you have a solution?" Theo Marsh asked with a furrowed brow.

Clara Whitmore's gaze remained fixed on the computer screen. "We can directly recover the deleted experimental data, check the operation logs, pinpoint the deletion time, and then cross-reference the lab personnel list from that period."

Theo sighed. "That's the theory, but the recycle bin's been emptied. Can the data still be recovered?"

"I can try," Clara said calmly.

She hadn't intended to intervene initially—data recovery would take time, while checking surveillance footage would've been the quickest solution. But under these circumstances, the cameras could no longer provide further clues.

Just as Clara prepared to operate the computer, Elias Mercer suddenly pressed down on her wrist.

Everyone froze.

"First," Elias's voice was steady, "there's currently no direct evidence implicating Clara. All suspicions are based solely on Celia Monroe's claims."

He scanned the room. "It's like losing your wallet on the street and randomly accusing a passerby, demanding they prove they're not the thief. Does that sound reasonable?"

"Clara," he met her eyes directly, "you have the ability to uncover the truth, but never fall into the trap of self-justification."

Clara's heart jolted. The man's calm, razor-sharp logic snapped her back to clarity.

Elise Warren suddenly understood. "He's right! The burden of proof lies with the accuser. Why should Clara have to prove her innocence?"

All eyes turned to Celia Monroe.

Her smile stiffened, fingers twisting together unconsciously.

"I... I was just raising suspicions," her voice trembled, "I never said Clara did it."

Elias pulled out his phone. "Then let's handle this through the police."

"Agreed," Elise responded immediately.

Theo raised his hand. "I'm in favor too."

Celia's face turned ashen, beads of sweat forming at her temples. Just as Elias was about to dial, Felix Moreau suddenly stepped forward.

"Wait!" He waved his hands frantically. "I used Celia's computer yesterday—I might've accidentally deleted her folder and emptied the recycle bin..."

He bowed repeatedly. "This is all my fault, causing this misunderstanding. I'm so sorry..."

Celia nodded stiffly. "It's... it's fine."

Elise eyed them skeptically. "Be more careful next time."

Clara turned and left without another glance. As for helping Celia recover her data? She owed her no such obligation.