Sarah took a taxi to the grand family mansion on the hill.
The huge stone gates stood wide open under the afternoon sun.
She walked up the long driveway lined with green oak trees.
The mansion featured giant white pillars and high glass arched windows.
A well-dressed man stepped out onto the wide front porch steps.
His face looked cold and stern as he watched Sarah approach him.
Julian: Who allowed you to walk onto this private property today?
Sarah: I am Sarah, Eleanor's daughter, and this home belongs to me.
Julian let out a harsh laugh as he walked down the steps.
Julian: You are an intruder making ridiculous claims about my late sister.
Sarah: I have the legal papers and the gold bird necklace right here.
Julian stopped in his tracks and stared directly at her neck.
His eyes narrowed as he recognized the gold bird pendant instantly.
Julian: That cheap trinket proves absolutely nothing in a real court.
Sarah: The lawyer in town has the signed trust fund papers ready.
Julian: You will not get a single cent from this family estate!
Sarah: I do not care about the money, I want my identity!
Julian stepped closer and spoke in a sharp angry whisper.
Julian: You need to leave this city immediately and never come back.
Sarah: I am not afraid of your threats or your corporate lawyers.
A car pulled into the driveway and Arthur stepped quickly outside.
Arthur walked straight up to Julian with his chin held high.
Arthur: Leave the girl alone, Julian, the truth is out now.
Julian: You were paid to take her away and stay silent forever!
Sarah turned toward Arthur with a look of sudden deep shock.
Sarah: Dad, is what he saying about payment true at all?
Arthur shook his head firmly and placed his arm around Sarah.
Arthur: I took money only to keep you safe from his threats.
Julian: You signed an agreement thirty years ago in this very house!
Sarah looked between both men as the heated argument grew louder.
She realized the court battle tomorrow would reveal every last secret.