Chapter 50. New Home

Julia

Walking up the steps to Braxton’s home without him is odd. I’m looking at the house with a new perspective this time, as if there’s a chance this is where I will live--from now on. It’s hard to imagine. It’s hard to believe I could be calling this place home. Braxton makes it seem like it is as simple as me making up my mind that this is what I want, and I can have it, but I have to wonder if it’s really that simple.

I am greeted by Susan, one of the servants. She is standing in the foyer, a warm smile on her face. She is old enough to be my mother, a thought that reminds me I will need to call my parents and tell them what has transpired. I wonder if Jeff has already called them….

“Good morning, Ms. Julia,” Susan says, taking my hand in hers. “Welcome home!”

“Thank you,’ I say, but the words catch in my throat a little as I consider what she’s saying. Home. Is this place my home? I can’t even fathom that truly being the case. Never in