Chapter 38

Their argument was interrupted by Natasha, who approached with caution visible in her expression. “Sorry to interrupt, but Franklin’s nurse just called. He’s asking for you, Emma. Something about feeling ‘not right.’”

Emma immediately shifted focus, personal grievances secondary to concern for her grandfather. “I’ll head there now. Can you arrange for the car?”

“Already done,” Natasha assured her.

Emma turned back to Alek. “We’re not finished with this discussion.”

“I’ll meet you at the mansion after I wrap things up here,” he said, professional mask firmly back in place.

The drive to Franklin’s felt interminable, Emma’s mind toggling between worry for her grandfather and anger at Alek’s omission. By the time she arrived, her emotions were a tangled mess.

She found Franklin in his study rather than his bedroom, which was somewhat reassuring. He sat in his usual armchair, color better than it had been in days, though fatigue lined his face.

“