Chapter 121: Ready To Heal
Alex gripped the steering wheel tightly, staring at the imposing structure of the police station just ahead.
The building loomed, gray and unforgiving, matching the heaviness sitting in his chest. His jaw clenched as he inhaled deeply, trying to steady himself for what was about to happen.
This confrontation with Jake had been a long time coming—one he'd avoided for too long. Yet here he was, prepared to finally face his nephew after everything.
The car was silent except for the soft patter of rain beginning to mist the windshield. His thoughts were a whirlwind, the past playing in flashes.
He'd told Emma he could handle this alone, that she didn't need to come. But of course, she hadn't listened.
Alex turned his head slightly, glancing at her. She sat quietly in the passenger seat, her hands folded in her lap but clenched tighter than usual. Her face was calm, yet her eyes betrayed her worry.
"You didn't have to come," he said quietly, his voice gentler and softer than he intended since he didn't want her to see his worry.
Emma shook her head, meeting his gaze with quiet determination. "I know. But I wanted to."
His lips pressed into a thin line. He knew she meant well, but the thought of her being here, waiting, while he confronted Jake... It felt like too much to put on her.
"I told you I could—"
"Stop." Emma cut him off softly, leaning closer. "I'm not going inside. I'll stay right here. I just needed to be here, Alex. For you."