Chapter Hundred and twenty-two

The imposing gates of the correctional facility appeared ahead as Charles and Norah approached, a sense of purpose guiding their steps. Inside, they requested a meeting not with Emma, the focal point of their previous encounters, but with the matriarch of the Adams family, Elizabeth.

As they were ushered into a dim visiting room, Elizabeth, her face a mix of surprise and suspicion, greeted them. “What brings you here?” she questioned, her tone edged with caution.

Charles, choosing his words carefully, explained, “We’re here to talk, Elizabeth. We want to understand why our names are being dragged through the mud, why your family is spreading scandalous stories about us, even while you’re locked up here.”

Elizabeth, settling into her chair, regarded them with a hint of doubt. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” she replied, her eyes narrowing.

Norah, her voice steady, added, “We’ve lost our freedom because of the rumors. Our lives have been turned upside down. We just want to kno