335: Unlikely Alliances

In the dimly lit room, the tension was palpable as Lillian’s voice crackled through the phone. Emma, standing a few steps away, watched as Alex’s expression shifted subtly, an indication of his internal calculation about the call's implications. “I’m sorry, bro,” Lillian’s voice was tentative, a mixture of regret and desperation evident in her tone. Alex paused, assessing the sincerity behind the apology before responding. “What are you sorry for, Lillian?” Alex’s voice was steady, masking the complexities of emotion he felt towards his brother's sudden outreach. “I... I’ve realized a lot over these past few weeks. I’ve been used, Alex. They manipulated me into going against you, against our family. I’m done with that now. I want to come back, make things right,” Lillian pleaded, her voice cracking slightly under the strain of her confession. Alex glanced at Emma, seeking a silent counsel in her gaze. Emma nodded slightly, an unspoken agreement that they should at least hea