We were all gathered in the dimly lit dining room, a tense atmosphere weaving around us like an oppressive fog as Bella called the meeting to order. Her earnest gaze pierced through the shadows as she bore the weight of a startling revelation—her mother had been apprehended and was now confined to the depths of the basement where Alex was held, awaiting a verdict that could alter the course of our lives.
Jen’s voice broke through the heavy silence, infusing the room with a sense. “Dad, Layla, I truly feel for what you’re going through, but confronting your mate is imperative before we face court again. We’ve exhausted all avenues to question him, but he insists that he only speaks with you.”
Frustration welled in me, and I buried my head in my hands as waves of uncertainty crashed over
