*Chapter 28: The Confrontation*
Alexander crept out of the bedroom, his senses on high alert. Sophia followed close behind him, her heart pounding in her chest.
As they reached the living room, they saw a figure standing in the shadows. Alexander's eyes narrowed, and he stepped forward. "Who's there?" he demanded.
The figure stepped forward, revealing a tall, imposing man with a scowl on his face. "Alexander," he growled. "I've been looking for you."
Sophia's eyes widened as she recognized the man. It was Alexander's father, and he looked angrier than she had ever seen him.
"What do you want, Father?" Alexander asked, his voice firm.
"I want you to stop this nonsense," his father spat. "You're ruining the family's reputation, and you're going to pay for it."
Sophia stood tall, refusing to back down. "We're not going to stop," she said. "We're going to see justice served, no matter what."
Alexander's father sneered at her. "You think you're so brave, don't you?" he said. "But you're just a pawn in my son's game. You're nothing but a tool for him to use and discard."
Sophia felt a surge of anger, but Alexander put a hand on her arm. "Don't engage with him," he whispered.
Alexander's father took a step closer, his eyes blazing with fury. "You're going to regret crossing me," he snarled. "I'll make sure of it."
Suddenly, the lights flickered and went out. Sophia gasped, her heart racing. What was happening?
As the darkness enveloped them, Sophia felt a hand grab her arm. It was Alexander, pulling her close. "Stay with me," he whispered.
But Sophia knew that they were in grave danger. Alexander's father was unpredictable, and she had no idea what he was capable of.