Chapter 0022 Laurens POV The room seemed to freeze , the weight of his words hanging in the air . Alexanders jaw tightened , his gaze dropping to where Llams hand rested on my hip . What ? Fiancée ? The word echoed in my mind as I stared back at Liam . My gaze flicked to Sophia , whose smile seemed to stretch wider by the second , her eyes sparkling with the satisfaction of a secret revealed . s voice dans Your fiancée ? Alexander repeated , his voice dangerously calm . Thats right , Liam replied , his tone light but his grip fir . Though I suppose congratulations are in order for you and Sophia as well . Sophia beamed , clearly pleased by the implication , but Alexanders focus remained on me . His expression was unreadable , but the tension in his shoulders spoke volumes His dark , intense gaze never wavered from me , as though he were peeling away the layers of my composure with every passing second . The heat of his stare crawled beneath my skin , leaving an unsettling trail I couldnt shake . I hated how easily he made me feel exposed , like an open book written in a language I couldnt understand . I felt myself shrink , Instinctively pulling away from Liam , desperately trying to get this train wreck back on track . Were here to discuss the recent hospital acquisitions , I said , my voice steady , even though my hands were folded tight infront of me . Liam and I represent Hailsing , and were hoping to finalize the terms . Sophias eyes flickered with something I couldnt quite place , but she wasted no time in dismissing my words . of course , well be happy to offer you a price youll be satisfied with , she said , her tone as smooth and patronizing as ever . It was then that Alexander spoke , his voice cutting through the tension in the air like a knife . What I need , he said slowly , is for Lauren to agree to stay with the pack , and to be fully involved in Owens treatment . His words were a command , not a request . The room seemed to freeze around me , my breath catching in my throat as I processed what he was saying . Laruen , my name . He never was afraid to push the room dispite its discomfort . I glanced at Liam , but he didnt speak immediately . His face was unreadable , a mask of calm that hid the storm of emotions beneath . Liam stepped forward , his charming smile spreading . Im afraid thats not posible , sir , he said firmly , his voice full of quiet defiance . We have many other doctors , and Im sure I can find you one just as good as Dr. Ava , Alexander . Were not here for this . Lauren , Alexander corrected , his voice chilling . His eyes cold and calculating , flicked briefly from Liam to me , his gaze lingering like a shadow . Alpha Kings health is deteriorating , he continued , his tone deceptively calm . You , more than anyone , would . understand that , Liam . Once your brother ascends to the throne , you wont be able to protect Lauren in the coming power struggle . She needs to stay where shes useful . Where she belongs . I could feel the blood rush to my face , my heart pounding in my chest as the words sank in , Liam and Sophias face paling I knew Alexander wasnt interested in buying the hospital for the sake of business . No , he wanted to control me . +25 BONUS with every passing second , the weight of his intention pressed heavier on my chest . Llams law clenched . You cant just take her , Alexander , dy her , he said , his voice low but full of anger . Shes hot some pawn in your gaine . Shes not yours to control . But Alexander didnt flinch . Control ? Im not interested keeping things in order , in making sure the right pieces are controlling anyone , Liam . But I am interested in where they belong . Only I can guarantee her safety . He locked eyes with Liam , his expression unmoving . You see that soon enough . The words left like a bear trap snapping around me , ensnaring me to this man . I couldnt … do this . I turned to Liam , my mind racing . Enough , I said , my voice barely above a whisper . I needed space before I said something Id regret . Liam opened his mouth to protest , but the fire in my gaze shut him down . With a single nod , I moved away , my footsteps echoing in the empty space as I excused myself , desperate to escape the weight of the conversation . The bathroom door clicked shut behind me , and I exhaled , pressing my palms to the cool marble sink . It seemed impossible to convince Alexander to abandon his plans for the hospital . But it wasnt just a building to it was everything . My lifes work , my childs memory . Letting go wasnt an option . I couldnt walk away from the one thing that kept me connected to the child I had lost . me A shadow flickered in my peripheral vision , and my heart leaped . I spun around , only to find a closet door opening behind me . +25 BONUS Chapter 0023 In episode 36 of ReelTalk, titled "Love Bombing: The Reunion" by CrushReel, the cast of ReelShort's popular unscripted show reunites for a captivating journey. Singles and couples come together to reminisce about past drama, spill secrets, and relive the most memorable moments that kept viewers on the edge of their seats. Exploring themes of love, betrayal, and unexpected connections, this ongoing romance series delves deep into the complexities of relationships. The characters' dynamics and interactions reveal layers of emotions and unveil surprising twists that redefine conventional notions of love. What sets this reunion apart is its raw authenticity and unfiltered storytelling. Viewers are invited to witness the emotional rollercoaster firsthand as unresolved tensions resurface and new revelations come to light. Dive into the world of "Love Bombing: The Reunion" for an immersive experience that will leave you craving more. Experience the excitement for yourself by reading this engaging series online at CrushReel.