BROKEN

Chapter 4: Unexpected Visitor

Emma couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled in her chest after Jack's visit. She knew she had made the right decision, but his anger had left her on edge. She decided to take a walk to clear her head, and Alex offered to come with her.

They strolled down the quiet street, the sun setting in the sky, casting a warm glow over the houses. Emma felt a sense of peace settle over her, being in this small town with Alex by her side.

As they walked, they passed a small coffee shop, and Emma decided she could use a warm drink. She went in and ordered two cups of coffee, and they sat down at a small table in the corner of the shop.

As they chatted, Emma noticed a man staring at her from across the room. She tried to ignore him, but he kept staring. Finally, she couldn't take it anymore and stood up to leave.

The man rushed over to her. "Emma, it's me. Jack."

Emma's heart stopped. She didn't know what to do. She felt Alex tense up beside her.

"What are you doing here?" Emma asked, trying to keep her voice steady.

"I needed to see you, Emma. I'm sorry for how I acted earlier. I was angry and hurt, but that's no excuse," Jack said, his voice soft.

Emma shook her head. "It doesn't matter, Jack. I can't just forgive you for what you did."

"I know that," Jack said. "But I want to make things right. I've been going to therapy, and I'm working on my issues. I want to be a better man, for you."

Emma was taken aback. She didn't know what to say. Part of her wanted to believe him, but another part of her was afraid to trust him again.

Alex spoke up. "Maybe it's time for you to leave, Jack. Emma needs some space to figure things out."

Jack looked at Alex, his eyes narrowed. "And who the hell are you?" he spat.

"I'm someone who cares about Emma," Alex said, his voice steady.

Jack looked like he was about to say something else, but then he turned and stormed out of the shop.

Emma slumped back into her seat, feeling drained. "I don't know what to do," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Alex reached across the table and took her hand. "You don't have to decide anything right now. Take some time to think, and when you're ready, we'll figure it out together."

Emma nodded, feeling grateful for his support. As they finished their coffee and left the shop, she couldn't help but wonder what the future held for her and Jack. Could she ever trust him again? And what did Alex really mean by "we'll figure it out together"?