Chapter Thirty-six

Emily's hands shook as she held the binder carrying the devastating information against Claire. She had read the contents many times, each bit of information strengthening her determination. However, as she went down the hallway of Madison Middle School, her thoughts were drawn to another name: Samantha Blake.

Emily discovered Samantha at her job's lounge, seated with a cup of coffee and a stack of papers. The room was empty save for the two of them. Emily closed the door behind her, the click reverberating through the quiet.

"Samantha," Emily said, her voice firm despite the maelstrom of emotions screaming inside her.

Samantha glanced up, her eyes narrowed. "Emily. "What brought you here?"

Emily took a deep breath and stepped closer. "We need to talk."

Samantha laid her coffee cup down, her expression changing to one of irritation. "I don't have time for this."

"Make time," Emily said, her voice tightening. She threw the folder on the table. "You and Claire have gone too far."

Samant