8
Determined, I walk into the mansion-like guesthouse and approach Julia. She’s wearing a sleeveless dress. Without giving myself a chance to flake out, I touch her exposed elbow.
An animated version of Julia appears next to me, her blue eyes filled with shock. “Darren? What are you doing here?”
I look at her uncomfortably, unsure what to say.
“Is something wrong?” she asks, her surprise turning into worry. “You look pale.”
“I... sort of have something strange to tell you.”
“Okay.” She blinks. “I’m not sure I like the sound of that.”
“You’re not here for the reason you were told,” I say, looking at her.
“I’m not here for any reason at all.” She frowns. “They’re giving the reins to my mom.”
“Right. That succession thing? It’s a ruse to get you to come here,” I say, watching her clo
