I stood at the gates of the Dubois mansion, the photograph clutched tightly in my hand. The evening breeze rustled through the trees, carrying with it memories of all the times I'd crossed this threshold feeling small and unwanted. But not today. Today, I needed answers.
"Are you sure you're ready for this?" Rebecca whispered beside me.
I nodded, my throat too dry for words. The Beaumonts flanked me like protective sentinels—Mr. and Mrs. Beaumont, Rebecca, and Dominic, all willing to stand with me as I confronted my past.
A young nanny answered our ring at the gate, her eyes widening when she saw me.
"Miss Elara? I—I wasn't expecting you."
"I need to see Mrs. Dubois," I said, my voice steadier than I felt. "It's urgent."
The nanny hesitated. "I'll have to check if she's receiving visitors. Please wait here."
As she hurried back toward the main house, Dominic placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "Whatever happens, we're right here with you."
