The private study was quiet and filled with old leather books.
Julian pulled out a soft chair for Elena to sit down on.
He poured a glass of water and handed it to her carefully.
"Tell me your mother's name," Julian said in a gentle tone.
"Her name was Sarah Miller," Elena replied before taking a drink.
Julian took a deep breath as the confirmation hit his heart hard.
Sarah Miller had been the head housekeeper for his grandfather decades ago.
She had disappeared after a terrible house fire saved the young heir.
Victoria's mother had taken credit for the rescue to get rich quick.
The legal papers had been drawn up based on that huge lie.
The family attorney walked into the study holding a thick folder.
He placed the heavy documents onto the large wooden desk nearby.
"We have the original trust documents right here," the lawyer stated.
Julian pointed at the silver coin lying on Elena's chest.
"Compare the inscription on her coin with the vault records," Julian said.
The lawyer reached into his pocket and pulled out a small magnifying glass.
He closely examined the micro-engraving on the edge of the silver coin.
His hands began to shake as he realized the truth of the situation.
"This is the authentic coin created by your grandfather," the lawyer confirmed.
Elena sat up straight in her chair with complete shock on her face.
"What does that mean for me?" Elena asked in a small voice.
"It means you are the true heir to the estate," Julian explained softly.
Victoria burst into the study without knocking on the heavy door.
"You cannot believe these lies!" Victoria screamed across the quiet room.
"The evidence is right here in front of us," Julian stated clearly.
"You lied to my family for twenty whole years," he added.
Victoria looked around the room as panic took over her mind completely.
She realized there was no escape from her long history of deceit.