Her cousins were spoiled with expensive new gifts, but when Julian found his adopted daughter weeping over a basin of dirty plates, her simple question broke his picture-perfect world in two.

New Year's Eve arrived. The Charleston Heritage Club was dripping in crystal chandeliers, white roses, and champagne towers. Eleanor and Arthur Sterling were holding court in the center of the ballroom, soaking in the admiration of their peers. Sarah stood nearby, playing the role of the worried, martyr sister, accepting sympathetic pats on the arm from wealthy socialites.

The heavy double doors of the ballroom swung open.

The string quartet seemed to falter for a moment as Julian walked in. He looked immaculate in a tailored tuxedo, but he wasn't alone. Holding his hand, wearing a stunning, custom-made gold and white gown that made her look like an absolute princess, was Mia. She held her head high, a confident smile on her face. Julian had spent all week building her courage for this exact moment.

Whispers erupted across the room. Eleanor’s smile froze and shattered.

Julian walked straight past the confused socialites, straight to the DJ booth. He handed the DJ an envelope of cash and a flash drive. "Play track one. Max volume."

Before Arthur could intercept him, Julian grabbed the main microphone.

"Good evening, everyone," Julian’s voice boomed across the silent ballroom. "My sister, Sarah, has been very publicly concerned about my 'mental health' lately. She claimed I had an episode and ruined Christmas. I thought it was only fair to clear the air and show you exactly what kind of 'loving family' the Sterlings truly are."

He signaled the DJ.

The music cut out. And suddenly, through the state-of-the-art surround sound system, Sarah’s sneering voice echoed off the crystal chandeliers.

"...adopt a girl who looks like she belongs in a shelter. She's ruining the whole aesthetic."

Gasps rippled through the crowd.

Then came Eleanor’s aristocratic, cold voice.