Emma’s POV
The morning sun peeked through my curtains, bathing the room in a soft, golden glow, it felt ironic, really, how peaceful the day seemed, given the storm brewing inside me.
I hadn’t slept much after yesterday’s confrontation with my parents. Every time I closed my eyes, their faces haunted me, dragging old wounds to the surface.
Jeff had texted me late last night, letting me know he’d arranged a meeting at the hotel where my parents were staying. A “neutral ground,” he called it, but the thought of sitting across from them again made my stomach churn.
I was already nursing my second cup of coffee when Jeff walked into the kitchen. His hair was slightly mussed, as if he’d run his hand through it one too many times, he looked at me carefully, as though gauging my mood.
“They’
