na's

o hesitation. I pulled a nondescript suitcase from the closet and began packing methodically, passing over the racks of couture gowns

ater, a plain white t-shirt. Things a real person would wear. Then I carefully placed the box of

ust as well. A sharp pang shot through my chest, an instinctive ache for my child, but I pushe

But in the main foyer, a figure stood by the door. Mrs. Kowalski, the head housekeeper. Her silver hair was neatly pi

to my suitcase with gentle concern

business trip. The bank is sending me to Chicago for a few days." The lie felt slick

eyes, but her loyalty was to the house, and I was still, for now, its Luna. She

called a car." I couldn't ris

m. I dragged the suitcase behind me, the wheels noisy on the pristine cobblestone dr

a false name. A desperate contingency plan I'd never truly believed I would use. When the black sedan pulled up, I

n the rearview mirror until it was gone. Sienna Everl

ave the full suit of armor ready for you." For the first time in

pulence of the Upper East Side. It was perfect. The apartment was small, but the morning su

s the box. I knelt and spread my sketches across the floor. Dresses, coats, gowns-a riot of col

tared back: the docile Luna. I turned on the faucet and splashed cold water on my face. W

rical neckline I'd designed and sewn myself years ago. I put it on. The fabric settled