Behind the podium hung a huge portrait of Valerie from before the accident.

“Two years ago, our family suffered the tragic loss of our beloved daughter,” Beatrice told a room packed with reporters, corporate attorneys, and cameras.

“Today an opportunistic young woman is trying to exploit my husband’s grief for money and notoriety. We will not let Valerie’s memory be tarnished.”

Then the heavy double doors at the back of the ballroom swung open.

Valerie walked in first — no designer clothes, just a simple dark dress and the silver moon bracelet. Marcus walked beside her with a leather folder. Alexander came right behind them.

The room broke into murmurs and flashing cameras.