Chapter 13: A New Home

The quiet hum of the evening enveloped Emma as she turned the key in the front door, her heart heavy with the day's events. The atmosphere inside the house felt stifling, a stark contrast to the warmth she had witnessed at Olivia's wedding. She stepped inside, hoping for a moment of respite, only to find Charles sitting in the living room, a storm brewing in his eyes. "Emma, where the hell have you been?" Charles's voice cut through the silence, his accusatory tone echoing in the room. Emma, her weariness evident, met his gaze without flinching. "I was at Olivia's wedding. I told you about it." Charles scoffed, a bitter laugh escaping his lips. "Don't lie to me. I know you've been up to something. You didn't invite me, did you?" "No, I didn't," Emma replied calmly. "It was a small gathering, and you know we're not close to my sister. Even my father wasn't invited either; what makes you think you would?" Charles's face darkened, suspicion turning into anger. "You're hidin