66 Unspoken Tensions

In Michael's office, the air was thick with unspoken accusations. Jon Trevon's arrival had set a tense stage, marked by a silent battle of wills between him and Michael. "Why are you holding onto my sister like a prized possession, Michael?" Jon's voice was calm, but his eyes were sharp, probing. Michael, unflustered, responded with a dismissive wave of his hand. "She's here of her own accord. I have no chains around her." Jon leaned forward, his tone growing stern. "Nearly a decade, Michael. A decade she's devoted to you, and yet you treat her like a mere employee. Isn't it time you acknowledged her commitment?" In the background, Catherine's voice echoed from the speakerphone, filled with a mix of defiance and desperation. "I am not leaving, Michael! Not for him, not for anyone!" Michael sighed, pressing his fingers to his temples. "Catherine, this isn't about what I want. It's about what you need. Go back with your brother." "You think you can just dismiss me like