(Emma's POV)
My heart was pounding so hard I thought it might burst out of my chest. Nathan's eyes were fixed on me, filled with confusion and dawning recognition. I could feel Alexander's hand on my waist, warm and steady, but inside, I was falling apart.
"Emma?" Nathan's voice was filled with disbelief.
I forced myself to remain calm, even as panic threatened to overwhelm me. My eyes lowered, not daring to meet Nathan's gaze. "Mr. Cross, you've made a mistake," I said softly, trying to keep my voice from trembling. "I'm Victoria."
The words felt like ash in my mouth. Each lie was another weight on my conscience, threatening to crush me. But what choice did I have?
Alexander's voice cut through the tension, sharp and curious. "Who is Emma?" he asked, his grip on my waist tightening s
