Chapter 4

4 Theatrics and Revelations 4 Theatrics and Revelations Emma watched, hiding her disbelief as Alex and Bella played out their drama, wondering how she ever fell for such a big fool. Her resolve to leave, belongings in hand, was interrupted by Bella’s accusations.

“I didn’t do any of this! Why are you so set on blaming me? I’ve hardly been around you two, only returning now for a film project. Why target me?” Bella’s words, though directed at the room, were clearly aimed at Emma.

Emma observed the dysfunctional family scene with a detached amusement: Alex, blinded by infatuation; Bella, the manipulative actress; and the mother–in–law, eager to attack.

As Alex accused Emma of malicious intent, she replied with a sigh, “You have no proof, okay? Without it, your accusations are slanderous, and I can even sue you for slander.”

All eyes turned to Bella, even the mother–in–law seeming to doubt. The lack of proof against Emma raised questions.

Tears filled Bella’s eyes as she looked to Alex for support. “You believe me, right? After all these years, how could you think I’m capable of this?”

Alex, still nursing past regrets, reassured her, asking for evidence to clear her name. Bella’s response was dramatic, threatening to harm herself to prove her innocence.

As she lunged towards a sharp corner of the cabinet, Alex grabbed her, preventing serious injury but not before she cut her forearm. Bella’s tears and Alex’s protective embrace left Emma unimpressed with their melodrama.

Despite Bella’s theatrics, Emma remained completely detached, ready to leave all this behind. But each attempt to exit was thwarted by another call for her attention.

Alex, furious, demanded Emma take responsibility for Bella’s actions. Emma’s incredulity was palpable.

“How am I responsible for her recklessness? You’re the one who wants to marry a drama quieen! If you’re accusing me of harm, where’s your evidence? If you have none, my only duty is to call for medical help.”

Taking out her phone, Emma was met with Alex’s frantic protests about the hospital’s distance. Her patience wearing thin, she remained firm in her stance.

The scene, more fitting for a stage than reality, made Emma all the more eager to leave this farce of a marriage and its accompanying drama. She was done being a part of their twisted and sadistic script.

5 Twists and Turns