I stood before the massive oak doors of the Johnson mansion, my heart pounding against my ribs. For twenty-two years, I'd approached this door with my head bowed, shoulders hunched—the posture of someone who knew they didn't belong. Today was different. Today, I stood tall.
The nanny who opened the door blinked in surprise at the sight of me.
"Miss Juliana?" She glanced nervously behind her. "We weren't expecting you."
"I need to speak with Mrs. Johnson," I said, my voice steady despite the earthquake inside me. "It's urgent."
The nanny hesitated, her eyes darting between me and the Beaumonts standing protectively behind me.
"I'll... I'll need to ask if she's receiving visitors. Please wait here."
She disappeared inside, leaving us standing at the threshold. I clutched the photograph tighter in my hand, its edges digging into my palm.
"Are you okay?" Caleb asked quietly.
I nodded, unable to trust my voice. The truth was so close I could almost taste it.
