Chapter 362

“Emmeline went to apologize to her husband, despite bearing no fault in the situation,” Zavian stated. “She requested my presence because she feared his reaction.” His words were measured, each one placed with the precision of a man who understood the weight and consequence of language better than most.

He paused meaningfully, allowing his words to sink in before continuing. “Her concerns proved entirely justified when he lost control and verbally abused her. Had I not been there...” He let the implication hang. His meaning was clear to everyone present.

“Well, given his history of violence, I believe we all know how it would have ended.” The neutrality of his tone did nothing to diminish the impact of his words. If anything, it amplified them, lending them the weight of objective truth rather than emotional testimony.

Richard’s fists slammed against the wooden table with enough force to make the water pitcher rattle precariously.

He lurched to his feet, his