CHAPTER THIRTY - THE LAST LETTER, THE LAST LIE

Emma and Marcus sat in the hospital waiting room. James was already there, pacing nervously. "Any news?" Marcus asked, his voice strained. James shook his head. "Nothing yet. Look, I want you both to know I had nothing to do with this. Victoria was acting on her own." Emma's eyes narrowed. "Really, James? After everything you've confessed?" James held up his hands. "I swear, Emma. Our plan never involved anything like this." Before Emma could respond, a doctor approached. "Are you here for Victoria Pierce?" Marcus stepped forward. "Yes, I'm Marcus Bennett. How is she?" The doctor's face was grim. "She's stable, but in critical condition. She's asking for you, Mr. Bennett." Emma squeezed Marcus's hand. "Go. I'll wait here." Marcus hesitated, then nodded. He followed the doctor, leaving Emma and James in uncomfortable silence. Inside Victoria's room, machines beeped steadily. Victoria's perfect poise was gone, replaced by a fragile vulnerability. "Marcus," she whispered, her v