033: Blackmail

Lara

"I know who you are," Juliana says.

For obvious reasons, this is like a punch to my throat because my mind starts imagining wild scenarios. A few seconds later, I tell myself that I probably have it all wrong. She can't know the truth of who I am. How is that possible?

So, I tell her, "I don't know what you're talking about."

Juliana takes a step toward me, her eyes narrowed. "When I first saw you, I knew that I recognized you but I didn't know from where. It was only when they said your name that I became suspicious. And so, I asked a few of my clients to do some research on who I thought you were, and now I have my answer."

I'm stone cold. My heart is slamming against my chest but I don't want to get ahead of myself. I don't want to assume the worst so readily.

Juliana tilts her head. She has this expression on her face like she's mocking my anguish. "What, you don't believe me? You don't think that I know who you are, Lara?"

I still don't say a word. I'm hoping and praying t