The moment Emily spoke, Sophia froze in her seat. Grace glanced at her, confused, as if trying to figure out who this woman was.

Emily smiled faintly. Regardless of who they thought she was, this time, neither Grace nor Sophia would walk away easily.

The officer nodded at Emily. “You may proceed.”

“Thank you,” Emily replied.

She stepped further into the room, standing tall while Grace and Sophia sat, forced to look up at her. In stark contrast to their shabby appearance, Emily was ...