But Alexander had already chosen ambition over love.
Soon the market was flooded with “Voice of Hope,” bottled in elegant containers, sold at impossible prices. Commercials featured Sophie’s story. Desperate families spent their savings for a chance at a miracle.
The tea cured no one.
Outrage exploded. Lawsuits mounted. His empire crumbled. Within months, Alexander was bankrupt, disgraced, and alone in his darkened mansion. Sophie refused to speak to him.
One stormy night, a knock echoed at the door.
Emily stood there, soaked but unshaken.
“I knew you only cared about the recipe,” she said calmly. “That’s why I left out the most important ingredient.”
His anger flared—then faltered.
“I’ll give you the real one,” she continued. “But only if you promise to give it away. Free. To everyone. If you profit from it, you’ll stay empty forever.”
Sophie stepped beside her, taking Emily’s hand.
Alexander collapsed to his knees. Stripped of pride, he finally saw the ruin he had created.
“I’ll do it,” he whispered brokenly. “I swear.”