Chapter 46

Katie's POV

The past few months had been a whirlwind of emotions for our family. First, there was the challenge of taking in Emily and helping her turn her life around. Then, there was the joy of watching her flourish and grow under our care. But now, a new challenge had emerged, one that threatened to tear our family apart.

It all started with a phone call. Alex had been in his home office, working on some business plans when his phone rang. He answered it with his usual cool demeanor, but I could tell from the tension in his voice that something was wrong.

"Hello?" he said, his voice low and serious.

There was a pause on the other end of the line, and then a deep, gravelly voice spoke.

"Hello, Alex. Long time no see."

Alex stiffened at the sound of the voice. "Who is this?"

"You don't remember me, Alex? That hurts my feelings."

There was a hint of amusement in the man's voice, and I felt a chill run down my spine. I knew that tone, that sense of smug superiority. It was the voice of