Emma scoffed, her laughter filled with sarcasm. "You talk like we're in some kind of war. But it seems you've forgotten that I've been fighting on my own for years without anyone backing me up. And now, you want to control everything about me?"
Emma's words cut deep, like daggers piercing Jackson's heart. He couldn't believe she would say such things. "Control? You think I'm trying to control you? I just want to help, to make sure we're going in the right direction, but you think I'm trying to control you?"
Emma didn't respond immediately, but her eyes were resolute. "Jackson, you don't understand. This is my life, my past, and I don't want anyone interfering, not even you."
Jackson sighed, trying to keep his voice calm, but the hurt was clear. "I'm not interfering, Emma. I just
