**Chapter 11: The Blackwood Summons**

As Brooklyn entered the study, she was immediately struck by the ominous atmosphere that seemed to permeate every inch of the room. Mr. Blackwood sat behind his massive wooden desk, his eyes fixed intently on her, his expression unreadable. Emily hovered in the doorway, her eyes darting between Brooklyn and her uncle, a mixture of concern and curiosity etched on her face. "Ah, Brooklyn, thank you for coming," Mr. Blackwood said, his voice dripping with an air of superiority. "I've been made aware of certain... distractions that have been affecting your work. I trust you can explain?" Brooklyn felt her face grow hot as she tried to think of a suitable response. She knew that Mr. Blackwood was referring to her trysts with Alex, but she had no intention of admitting to anything. "I'm not sure what