76 A Reckoning in the Shadows

Alex, observing the scene from a distance, felt a mix of disbelief and unease. Lillian's plot against Emma had spiraled out of control, and now she was at the mercy of her own machinations. Emma, seizing the upper hand, turned the tables on Lillian with chilling precision. As Lillian lay helplessly on the floor, Emma addressed the men she had redirected to her service. "Do to her what she intended for me," she commanded coldly. Lillian's fear was palpable as she realized the potential consequences of her actions. Alex, witnessing the drama unfold, felt a surge of protective instinct for his sister. He approached Emma, gripping her wrist, his voice tinged with disbelief. "This is going too far," he said, struggling to reconcile the ruthless woman before him with the Emma he thought he knew. Emma, unflinching, met Alex's gaze. "Your sister brought this upon herself. I'm just ensuring she understands the consequences of her actions." Nathan, taken aback by the intensity of the