567: Consequences and Clarity

In the aftermath of the confrontation, the mood in the house was tense. Mia, her hands trembling slightly after being reprimanded, felt the weight of the accusations against her. Bauer' piercing gaze didn't help, making her even more uncomfortable. Her usual tactics, which often involved invoking sympathy or shifting blame, were failing her here in the Ivan household. Emma, having stepped out to avoid further conflict, found herself walking through the garden, her thoughts swirling. The incident with the plates wasn't just about broken china; it was a symbol of the ongoing disruption Mia was causing in her home. It made her reevaluate the leniency she had extended towards Mia due to Alex's situation. Back inside, Bauer continued his quiet observation of Mia. His earlier life in the corporate world had sharpened his instincts for when someone was being deceitful or manipulative. "I noticed you looking at Emma right after the plates broke," Bauer stated, his voice calm but firm. "It