CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX - ENEMIES IN DISGUISE

Emma paced her apartment, her thoughts a whirlwind of anger and confusion. She couldn't believe James had lied to her. The sound of her phone buzzing broke her concentration. It was James. "Emma, can we talk?" his voice sounded strained. "You bet we can," Emma replied, her tone icy. "Meet me at the café in 20 minutes." The autumn air was crisp as Emma walked briskly to the café. She spotted James already seated, his fingers drumming nervously on the table. "Alright, James. Spill it. How long have you known Victoria?" James sighed, running a hand through his hair. "We've been friends since college. I... I should have told you." Emma's eyes flashed with anger. "You think? Why didn't you?" "I thought I was protecting you," James explained, his voice low. "Victoria can be... complicated." Emma scoffed. "Complicated? That's an understatement. And how exactly were you protecting me by lying?" "I wanted to keep an eye on her, make sure she didn't hurt you or Marcus again," James said