Chapter 181: Guilt

Alexander’s footsteps echoed softly through the hallway as he finally arrived home, his mind swirling with a mixture of guilt, exhaustion, and dread. The house was eerily quiet, with only the distant hum of the refrigerator and the soft ticking of the clock in the foyer keeping him company. He hesitated for a moment, his hand resting on the doorknob, as he steeled himself for the inevitable confrontation with Emma. He had no idea how he would explain his absence, let alone what had transpired the night before. As he pushed open the door, he was greeted by the sight of Emma pacing the living room, her face etched with worry. The moment she saw him, her eyes widened in relief, and she rushed towards him, her hands flying to his chest as if to reassure herself that he was really there. “Alex!” she exclaimed, her voice trembling with concern. “What happened? You didn’t come home yesterday. I was so worried!” Emma’s hands roamed over his body, checking for any sign of injury or illness.