Ten minutes after I had braced myself to enter, I timidly knocked on the dark, oak door to my father’s study, praying to God he wasn’t in. My hopes and dreams were dashed as my father’s booming voice cried, “We’ve been waiting!” I jumped back a little, getting one of my rare flashbacks from my childhood here: my dad’s call resounding through the cavernous halls, yelling for his little princess. It sounded full, warm, like it could switch to laughter in a moment.

Kylie’s trilling laugh pulled me back to reality. “C’mon, scaredy-cat!” She pulled a lock of my hair and flew to my back, pushing with all her might against me. It wasn’t very effective, but I grudgingly opened the door, trying to summon a charming smile. I suddenly remembered that I hadn’t changed since I’d arrived. Torn jeans would have to do.

My father sat behind his desk, with Drae standing officiously behind him. My father’s careful stare gave away nothing. Drae’s friendly wink was slightly more comforting. Deep breath. “Hey, dad. What’s up?”