Going to live with them

Valerie’s POV

I wrapped myself in a world of color and creativity in the small back room of the art supply store, but my mind was somewhere else. The old woman who had taken up residence with Drake and Charlotte had just shared her ambitious plan with me. As I listened to the details, shock gave way to intrigue and excitement.

"You can't be serious," I said, my eyes wide. "You want me to live there with you? To be a part of all this?

The old woman nodded, her eyes gleaming with the determined sparkle of mischief. "Yes, dear, I have been watching Charlotte for far too long. They are so confident, in their little bubble. But you and I, we can change that, can't we? We can turn things upside down for her.".

My heart skittered as I absorbed the possibilities. "And you really think I can just walk in there and do that? What if they don't want me around?"

The old woman waved a dismissive hand. "They don't get a say in this. You're strong, and you know how to play the game. Plus, having