[In the Shadows of Love] ~ Pedri.Gonzalez

Chapter 12

Emily's anger erupted. She screamed at Mark, "Of course, you can easily say I'm dramatic! You weren't the one getting hit and abused every single day. You weren't the one getting bullied about their body. You weren't the one who got nothing but shit-talking from their partner. You weren't, but I was! I was crying every single night, trying to move on, but I still fucking get nightmares because of you, Mark. I had to go to therapy just to stay alive! So who are you to come here and call me dramatic?"

With that, she turned on her heel and stormed off toward her office, leaving everyone in stunned silence. Pedri and Mia watched her go, both feeling the weight of her words hanging heavily in the air.

Mia turned to Mark, her face a mix of shock and anger. "What the fuck? Is that true? How could you do this to a girl? I can't fucking believe you."
Pedri and Mia began to walk away, but Pedri paused briefly, leaning in to whisper menacingly in Mark's ear,

"Trust me, if Mia wasn't here, I would just kill you right now. Stay away from Emily."
With that, Pedri straightened up and continued walking with Mia, leaving Mark standing there, stunned and alone.

Pedri and Mia made their way to Emily's office, their concern for her palpable. When they reached the door, they knocked gently before entering.

Emily was sitting at her desk, trying to compose herself. Mia approached her, her face filled with remorse. "Emily, I'm so sorry for what you've been through with Mark. I had no idea my cousin is a monster."

Emily looked up, her eyes still red from crying, but she managed a small, appreciative smile. "Thank you, Mia. I appreciate you saying that."

Pedri stepped closer, his expression serious but caring. "If you need anything, we're here for you," he added, his voice gentle.

Emily nodded, feeling a mix of relief and gratitude for their support. "Thank you, both of you. It means a lot."

Mia looked at Pedri and said, "I have to go now. See you later." She gave him a kiss on the cheek before leaving the office.

Emily, still trying to regain her composure, looked at Pedri and said, "I'm good, Pedri. You can leave."

Pedri shook his head slightly. "I don't think you are, Ems."