Once Samantha was out of sight, James approached me, his expression shifting from feigned concern to something more insidious—a mix of anger and a desperate need to understand. “Emily,” he started, his voice a low growl, “what did you do?”

I met his gaze evenly, forcing steadiness into my voice as I replied, “What did I do? James, you’re the one who tried to drug me.” Each word hung sharp and jagged between us, a challenge and an accusation.