"Oh my, no wonder I didn't recognize you at first. So it really is Kay. Expensive makeup does wonders, doesn't it? Look at our Kay—once she actually puts in the effort, she's downright stunning."

Only a fool would miss the sharp edge lurking beneath that seemingly casual compliment.

I lowered my eyes politely. "Thank you, Aunt Julie. That's very kind of you."

"Oh, please. No need to thank me—we're family, after all."

Juliana smiled as ...