Caroline's POV
"Please..." I said, gripping the cold iron gate to keep myself from collapsing. My voice came out hoarse. "I need to see Madam Harrington."
The security guard frowned as his eyes swept over my torn clothes and bloodstained sleeves.
"Miss," the guard said with a sigh, folding his arms across his chest. "Madam Harrington doesn't see strangers without an appointment. Please leave."
A bitter smile tugged at my lips.
If only he knew how badly I wished I looked like a stranger.
"I'm not lying," I whispered, forcing myself to stand straighter despite the stabbing pain in my ankle. "Please tell her Caroline Thompson is here. She'll remember me."
The second guard shook his head.
"People come here every day claiming to know Madam Harrington," he replied impatiently. "You're wa
