288: Unwelcome Revelations

Maxwell stood firmly, his gaze fixed on Alex with an unmistakable sense of protectiveness and barely concealed animosity. Emma, witnessing this familiar yet exhausting display, couldn't help but feel a mix of amusement and irritation at the unfolding scene. "Really, Alex, what brings you here? To disrupt my talks, or is there something else on your agenda?" Maxwell's voice was icy, cutting through the tension between them like a knife. His phone rang, providing a momentary distraction, yet his stance remained unchanged, a clear barrier between Emma and Alex. Alex, momentarily left alone by Maxwell's departure, took the opportunity to approach Emma. The surrounding crowd, recognizing Alex's presence, quickly converged around him, each person eager for a moment of his attention, hoping for future favors. Mabel, unable to contain her frustration, confronted Alex. "Why, Alex? Did you come because you knew Emma would be here? It seems rather petty, don't you think? Or is there anot