Chapter 80: Crossroads of Fate

The night’s tension seeped into the very walls of the beach house, lingering in the corners like an unwelcome guest. Taylor stood in the kitchen, her hands gripping the counter as she tried to steady herself. The unexpected arrival of Julia had shaken her more than she wanted to admit, and the look in Alex’s eyes—confusion, concern, and something else she couldn’t quite name—kept replaying in her mind. She took a deep breath, trying to push away the rising tide of insecurity. She had come so far, fought so hard to be where she was with Alex. She couldn’t let the past—his past—come between them now. But the unease gnawed at her, refusing to be silenced. As she poured herself a glass of water, she heard the faint sound of voices from the living room. Alex and Julia were talking; their conversation was hushed but intense. Taylor strained to hear, her heart pounding in her chest, but the words were indistinguishable. All she could make out was the tone—serious, almost pleading. What co