318: Family Ties and Business Deals

Emma stepped out of the dimly lit room, her face etched with concern. The tension had only intensified after speaking with Lillian. She glanced over at Bauer, searching for some reassurance or insight. Bauer met her gaze with a slight shrug. "I noticed something was off with her mental state right from the start, but it was hard to pin down. It’s clear now she’s struggling. What do you think we should do?" Emma sighed, rubbing her temples. "It's obvious her mental condition needs attention. Alex, as her brother, shouldn't you be concerned about Lillian's well-being or mental condition? This situation is much more complicated than it seems." Alex shifted uncomfortably, his silence speaking volumes. After a moment, he spoke, his voice tinged with frustration. "Look, Lillian might be my sister, but her actions are her own. I acknowledge that some of the trouble she’s caused might stem from our family issues, but I can't be held accountable for everything she does!" Emma nodded, understanding the delicate balance Alex was trying to maintain. "Arguing about this now won’t change anything. Let’s focus on how to handle the current situation." "Right," Alex agreed, albeit reluctantly. "Keep her with you for now. I need to sort out a few things on my end." Emma looked between Alex and Bauer, sensing the unresolved tension between the two men. "I’ll leave you two to discuss further. I have other urgent matters to address." Without waiting for their responses, Emma turned and left the room, her steps quick and determined. As soon as Emma was out of earshot, the room's atmosphere shifted as Alex and Bauer faced each other squarely, the air charged with their mutual disdain. Both were tall men, and matched each other’s height from the crowns of their heads to the soles of their feet. Bauer broke the silence, his voice sharp. "Today’s disaster is clearly instigated by your sister. It’s baffling that your family continues to target Emma despite your disengagement. What are you all thinking?" He slid a document across the table towards Alex. "Take a look at this. If you have no objections, just sign it. It’s straightforward." Alex eyed the document suspiciously, his brows furrowing as he read through it. After a moment, he scoffed, "What is this, some kind of bribe? You think you can buy me off?" Bauer leaned back, a smirk playing on his lips. "It’s a business proposal, not a bribe. Think of it as a mutually beneficial arrangement. It's clear you're not personally invested in the issues between Emma and your sister. Why not make a profit instead of getting caught up in family drama?" Alex shook his head, pushing the document back across the table. "I'm not interested in your deals. I’ve got my own plans, and they don’t involve undermining Emma. Remember, she and I have a history. I was engaged to her once. So, in terms of who has the right to be in her life, I’d say I’m ahead of you." Bauer collected the document, his expression unreadable. "Fair enough. But remember, we’re now competitors, Alex. And as competitors, I won’t make it easy for you. If you truly care about Emma, you’ll do everything within your means or power to keep your sister in check." Alex stood, his jaw set. "I don’t need reminders on how to handle my family or my business. And don’t worry about Emma. I won’t let Lillian—or anyone—harm her again." As Alex stormed out, Emma reappeared at the entrance of the room, having overheard the last part of their conversation. She watched Alex leave, then turned to Bauer, her expression a mix of gratitude and concern. "Thank you, Bauer, for standing up for me. But be careful. This rivalry with Alex could escalate beyond anything you may have in mind or plan." Bauer nodded, his gaze steady. "I’m prepared for whatever comes. Protecting you is my priority, Emma. We’ll handle whatever challenges arise—together." Emma smiled faintly, reassured yet wary of the complex web of personal ties and business interests that entangled them all. As she left the building, flanked by her security team, she knew the path ahead would be fraught with obstacles. But with allies like Bauer, she felt ready to face them.