542: Desperate Measures

Alex's declaration hung heavy in the air, a chilling finality to his desperate plan. Emma, however, was not one to be intimidated or defeated so easily. Her gaze hardened as she processed his words, her mind racing through possible escapes. "Is that your solution, Alex? Locking me away where no one can find me?" Emma’s voice was calm, but her heart was pounding fiercely. "You think that by isolating me, you'll somehow force me to return your feelings or forget about the harm you’ve caused?" Alex hesitated, the gravity of his own words sinking in. "It's not like that, Emma. I... I just don’t see any other way to keep you safe from your brother’s wrath and from Clarke Zodiac's manipulations. It’s all too dangerous." Emma scoffed, stepping back from him. "Safe? Or do you mean controlled? Alex, I’ve known you long enough to understand when you’re acting out of fear. And right now, you’re terrified of losing control over the situation." Alex looked away, unable to meet her eyes. His pl