Eighteen

Back at the Barrett house, Julie found herself in an uncomfortable position. It was almost like a dream come true for her, when her mother suddenly started to shower her with attention. After years of feeling neglected and unloved, Julie was finally getting the love and attention she had always craved. Margaret would bring her favorite dishes, ask about her day, and even take her shopping one time. For once, Julie knew what a mother's love felt like.

But the dreams turned sour when Margaret asked for something she couldn't give. She didn't pay much attention to her mother's little comments here and there about how Mason and Raven’s marriage wasn't right, how Mason deserved someone better. Until one evening, as they sat in the parlor, Margaret dropped the bombshell.

"Dear, I've been thinking," Margaret said, her tone deceptively gentle. "Why don't you try to convince your brother to divorce that girl."

Julie's heart sank. "What? No, mom. I can't do that."

Margaret's eyes narrowed,