Chapter Twenty Six

With measured steps, Lucas made his way towards the entrance of the hall, his eyes darting around in search of Emma. He couldn't shake off the guilt of leaving her alone for so long, and he hoped to catch a glimpse of her before he left the hall. But his quick scan proved futile as he stepped outside, greeted by the sight of a beautiful garden with a cascading waterfall.

Turning to face Ivanka, Lucas crossed his arms over his chest. "Make it quick. You have three minutes before I go looking for Emma," he announced, watching her frown at the mention of Emma's name.

"I'm sorry," Ivanka started, twisting her fingers nervously. "I didn't mean to hurt you. I've regretted it every day since...."

"Five years have passed, and now you're sorry? You regret?" Lucas interrupted, his voice laced with unintentional anger. He kept looking at her, waiting for more of her apology. Five years ago if Ivanka had profusely apologise as she was doing now, he could have forgiven her, accepted her back into