The wrought-iron gates of the Kingsley estate loomed large as the cab slowed to a stop. Carolina stared through the window, her heartbeat echoing like a drum in her ears. She had seen this mansion before in photos, in video, and in Katherine’s memories, but nothing had prepared her for the real thing. The grand columns. The vast manicured lawn. The silence of power.

She paid the driver, stepped out, and wheeled her modest suitcase up the stone walkway. As she approached the front entrance ...