21 Confronting the Aftermath

21  Confronting the Aftermath In his office, Alex sat reflecting on the call with Bella. Her mention of Emma only intensified his frustration. "Why drag Emma into this?" he muttered, the taste of betrayal bitter in his mouth. Meanwhile, Bella, in her hospital room, fumed over her predicament. "It's all Emma's doing," she seethed, her frustration manifesting as a fierce resolve to retaliate. Back in his office, Alex's neglect of his health, a habit since the divorce, culminated in a sharp stomach pain during a meeting. Collins, his assistant, rushed in, concern evident on his face. "Alex, you haven't eaten. Let me get you something," Collins offered, noticing his discomfort. Alex, grimacing in pain, responded tersely, "It's fine, Collins. I just need some medication." Collins' search for antacids was fruitless, a realization striking him about Emma's previous role in managing such details. "I remember Emma used to keep these stocked up for you," he mentioned cauti