Joana's gaze fixated on the television screen in the living room, already broadcasting clips of Elijah punching the paparazzi. A chill ran down her spine as she observed the scenes unfolding. The rapid dissemination of the footage intensified her self-blame. If she hadn't made the rash decision to venture out immediately after Elijah's public acknowledgement of their "relationship," none of this chaos would have transpired. The weight of responsibility pressed heavily upon Joana, compounded by the realization that her impulsive action had put Michaela in potential danger, leaving the young girl frightened and distressed.
Observing Elijah's composed demeanor, Joana was struck by his calm in the midst of the storm. Without uttering a word, he strode purposefully to the television and turned
