?Chapter 1328:


    “Emerson, there’s trouble. Afara’s in danger.” His words tumbled out before he even registered Sadie’s presence, and as soon as he saw her, he froze in ce.


    A sharp look from Emerson cut through the tension.


    “Is this how you present yourself? Exin what’s happening.”


    White Tiger dropped his gaze, his voice dropping to a whisper. “Our team reported a fire at the lighthouse. Afara… he’s trapped inside.” He hesitated, searching for the right way to break the news.


    “We reviewed the security feed. Just before the fire started, Dr. Hurst Lawson brought someone into the building. He—”


    He faltered, casting a wary nce in Sadie’s direction.


    Sadie turned her head toward him, anxiety twisting in her chest as a wave of dread swept over her.


    Finally, White Tiger forced out the words, his voice barely above a whisper. “It was… it was Noah Wall.”


    The news crashed through Sadie’s thoughts like a thunderp, scattering any semnce of calm.


    Sadie’s fists curled so tightly that her nails bit into her skin.


    Without thinking, she blurted out, “You can’t hurt him!”


    Emerson caught sight of her daughter’s ashen face and exhaled softly, almost too quietly to hear.


    “Sadie, try to stay calm. I’ve already had my people investigate Noah. Frankly, he’s no prize, especially considering the way he treated you.”


    Before he could finish, Sadie cut him off, her voice steely and cold.


    “He’s still more of a man than you’ll ever be.” Defiance shed in Sadie’s eyes as she leveled him with a re.


    Without waiting for a reply, she pivoted toward the door.


    Emerson threw a silent signal to White Tiger.


    Catching on instantly, White Tiger stepped forward, his broad shoulders blocking Sadie’s escape.


    Sadie skidded to a stop, surprise flickering across her face.


    She turned back, her icy stare locked on Emerson. “What is it you’re trying to do?”


    Emerson’s patience didn’t falter. Instead, he looked at her with the weary understanding of a father.


    “Sadie, you need to stay here,” he instructed, his tone gentle but firm. “Listen to me for once. White Tiger will go and see what’s happening. You heard the report. It’s far too dangerous for you. Wait here for any updates.”


    Sadie’s lips parted, but before she could argue, White Tiger bowed at Emerson’smand and slipped out, closing the door behind him.


    The soft click of thetch told Sadie all she needed to know.


    Sadie realized, with a sinking heart, that escape was off the table. Emerson approached quietly,ying a steadying hand on Sadie’s trembling shoulder.


    “If you insist on staying with Noah…”


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