123 The Unraveling

Lillian stood, trembling slightly, in the opulent garden of the banquet hall, her eyes darting around as if seeking an ally or an escape. The air was thick with tension, the kind that precedes a storm. "You think you can just waltz back here, after everything?" Lillian's voice cracked as she spoke, her attempt at defiance undercut by the quiver of fear in her tone. Emma, unfazed, turned to face her accuser, her calm demeanor a stark contrast to Lillian's agitation. "What exactly did I do, Lillian? Remind me, because from where I stand, I've only ever defended myself against your relentless spite." A murmur of whispers spread through the gathering crowd, their eyes flicking between the two women like spectators at a tennis match. Lillian, her face flushed with anger, retorted, "You think you're so innocent, hiding behind your brother and his power. But I know the truth. You're nothing without him!" Emma's expression hardened. "If believing that makes you sleep better at n