Chapter 42

Grandpa Ben’s voice cut through the tension, dripping with fake charm. “Well, Victor, I see you’ve brought…company,” he said, his eyes sliding over Emma with barely disguised contempt. “A shame she’s not quite up to the standards of this event, but I suppose anyone can sneak in these days.”

Emma’s blood boiled, her nails digging into her palms as the insult hit home. She opened her mouth to speak, but Victor stepped forward, his voice low and dangerous.

“Emma belongs here,” Victor said sharply, his gaze never leaving Grandpa Ben’s. “And I don’t need your approval, or anyone else’s, to stand beside her.”

Grandpa Ben’s smile faltered for a split second, but he quickly recovered, his tone dripping with condescension. “Victor, you’ve always had a soft spot for…projects. But you must realize that some people just aren’t cut out for this life. It’s better to keep them where they belong.”

Emma’s heart pounded in her chest, but Victor didn’t flinch.

“You don’t get to decide who belongs and wh