All eyes were on Madelyn as she made her faltering exit. No one had expected her to unravel so swiftly. If it were not for Zach shielding her, she might not have made it out at all.

Zach stubbed out his cigarette in frustration. Only when Madelyn's silhouette disappeared down the corridor did he rise from his seat. He remarked, "I see you haven't lost your fire, Frida Young."

Striding forward, Zach stood before Frida, his dark shadow casting an oppressive pressure over her. "You appear to forget that I'm the one holding all the cards," he warned. "Every word that escapes your lips jeopardizes Ethan. If something happens to him, don't think you can blame me."

Frida's eyes narrowed into a glare. "You wouldn't dare!"

Zach retorted, his eyes as chilling as a predator's, "Why wouldn't I? Maybe you'll find a body at the Young residence doorstep tomorrow. How would that be?" His menacing presence filled the air.

Yvonne looked visibly shaken. "You're a part of our family now. Would you re