Unsettling Truths and a Surprise Reunion

I stood frozen behind the bathroom door, heart racing as I listened to the heated exchange between Debra and Ethan. The silence that followed Debra's declaration about my new relationship hung heavy in the air.

"You don't know what you're talking about," Ethan finally said, his voice low and controlled. "Rhys isn't the villain you paint him to be."

"No?" Debra scoffed. "Then explain why he destroyed Elara without even giving her a chance to defend herself."

"Because he had proof!" Ethan's voice rose sharply, making me flinch. "Do you think he wanted to believe she betrayed him? He investigated for months after she left."

I pushed the door open slightly wider, unable to stop myself from peeking through the crack. Ethan stood with his fists clenched at his sides, looking like he was fighting to maintain his composure.

"What are you talking about?" Debra demanded, arms crossed.