Chapter Four

Emily felt the whole room's focus on her, and her heart quickened as she met eyes with Samantha. The stress was intense, with each second extending into what seemed like an eternity. Will moved closer, his presence a calming force alongside her.

"Samantha," Emily said, her voice firm despite the tumult inside her. "I didn't expect to see you here."

Samantha's grin was razor-sharp, breaking through the veneer of politeness. "And yet, here we are. How fortunate that we can all reconnect."

Victoria's gaze shifted to Samantha, then back to Emily, mistrust and interest clashing on her features. "You know each other?" she said, her tone tinged with barely disguised hatred.

"Yes, we do," Samantha said before Emily could respond. "Emily and I go way back, don't we? We used to be best friends."

The audience muttered, their interest peaked. Emily felt a rush of pain but kept her stance. "That was a long time ago, Samantha," she said quietly. "Things have changed."

Samantha's grin did not waver. "Indeed, they have. It's fascinating how life brings us back together in unexpected ways."

Victoria's eyes narrowed. "And what brings you here tonight, Samantha?"

Samantha's grin broadened as she looked around the room, making sure all eyes were on her. "Well, I couldn't miss the opportunity to support such a worthy cause, of course. And to see old friends."

Emily's stomach turned at the inference in Samantha's comments. She looked to Will, who was watching the interaction with interest.

"Samantha," Will said, his tone courteous but strong. "This event is about raising funds for the school. Let's keep our focus on that."

Samantha's eyes brightened with delight. "Of course, Will. I wouldn't dream of causing a scene."

Victoria's gaze was doubtful, but she nodded. "Let's get back to the event. We've drawn enough attention."

The gathering started to disperse, but the air remained heavy with unsaid anxiety. As Emily turned to go, Samantha's voice interrupted her.

"Emily, a word?"

Emily paused, nodded, and followed Samantha to a quieter section of the room. Samantha's grin vanished once they were out of earshot, giving way to a cold, calculating expression.

"I see you've been getting close to Will," Samantha remarked quietly and dangerously. "That's quite a step up from Jason, don't you think?"

Emily's eyes narrowed. "What do you want, Samantha?"

Samantha leaned forward with an angry face. "I want you to understand that you're playing a dangerous game. Will is powerful, and Victoria won't stand for anyone threatening her position."

Emily met her eyes squarely. "I'm not here to play games. I'm here to support the school and to do my job."

Samantha's grin returned but did not reach her eyes. "Just remember, Emily. You and I have a history, and I know things about you that could make your life very difficult."

Emily felt a shiver go down her spine, but she refused to be intimidated. "You can try, Samantha. But I'm not the same person I was back then."

Samantha's grin grew, and her eyes had a predatory glitter. "We'll see about that."

As Samantha turned and walked away, Emily took a deep breath to calm her pounding heart. She felt a touch on her shoulder and turned to see Will, his eyes wide with anxiety.

"Are you alright?" he inquired quietly.

Emily nodded, but her head was still whirling. "I'm fine. Just... a lot to take in."

Will's stare was steady and encouraging. "If you need to talk or if you need any help, I'm here."

Emily attempted a little grin. "Thank you, Will. That means a lot."

They returned to the celebration, but Emily couldn't escape the sensation of unease that lingered over her. The night progressed with more chats and introductions, but her thoughts were elsewhere, obsessed with Jason and Samantha's warnings.

As the evening came to a close, Emily found herself standing at the door, watching the visitors go slowly. Will approached her, seeming attentive.

"Are you heading home?" he inquired.

Emily nodded. "Yes, I think it's time."

"Can I give you a ride?" Will suggested. "It's late, and I'd feel better knowing you got home safely."

Emily pondered for a bit before nodding. "Thank you, Will. That would be nice."

They strolled out together, the chilly night air on Emily's skin. As they approached Will's vehicle, she couldn't escape the idea that the night's events were just the start of something much bigger and more convoluted.

Will unlocked the passenger door for her, and as she got inside, she looked back at the entryway. Victoria stood in the shadows, observing them with a sneer. Her eyes met Emily's, and they exchanged a wordless promise of conflict.