Victoria's argument had logic to it, which made it more dangerous than simple threats. She was framing her ultimatum as protection rather than control, making it harder to dismiss as purely manipulative.
"What if I'm willing to accept those risks?" I asked.
"Then you're making decisions that affect not just yourself, but Alexander, both our families, and everyone connected to your pharmaceutical empire. Selfishness disguised as love is still selfishness."
The accusation hit harder than expected. Was I being selfish by refusing to end things with Alexander? Was my desire for genuine romance putting people at risk?
"Mrs. Calloway, with all due respect, Alexander is an adult who can make his own choices about relationships."
"Alexander is a twenty-year-old who's never been in love before
