"You look beautiful," Virginia said. They had been searching all afternoon for a dress Johanna could wear to the party the next evening.

Johanna appraised herself in the mirror. The dress was a dark green with pearls sown into the fabric.

"You look like a princess," Bonnie remarked, making the other two laugh.

"Thank you."

"Do you like it?" Virginia asked.

Johanna nodded. "Very much."

"Alright then, you change and I'll buy the dress."

A little while later the three of them were having lunch at a nearby cafe.

"Who else is coming to the party?" Johanna asked, sipping her tea.

"Edward has sent out most of the invitations, but I can tell you that my sister and her husband will be joining us, Lady Katrina Lovett," Virginia made a face as she said her name, causing Johanna and Bonnie to start laughing. "The Destlers will also be joining us." She continued.

Johanna froze. "The Destlers?"

"Yes, do you know them?"

"No...who are they?"

"A rather large family. The couple, Erik and Christine, have six children, Monique, Elizabeth, Charlene, Edmond, Danielle, and Lily."

"Are any of the children my age?"

"No, the eldest is 13, why?"

"Just wondering?"

When they got back, there was a letter waiting for Johanna.

Dearest Johanna the letter started.

The Colonel was kind enough to tell me where you are. I hope you find your parents and I will wait in London until you return. I hope to see you soon, my love.

Forever Yours, Anthony

Johanna smiled.

"Why are you smiling?" Bonnie asked.

"Because I just received a letter from a friend."

"Ohhhh,"

Johanna laughed and Bonnie walked off.

The next day at the Destler household

"Is everyone ready to go?" Christine asked. Five of the children were waiting by the front door; Monique was holding Lily in front of her.

"Yes, Christine," Erik said walking into the room. "Everyone's ready."

"Alright, lets go."

All eight Destlers got into the carriage and started towards the Wickes' home.

"Erik, Christine," Virginia made her way to the pair. "We're so glad you could join us.

"Who, may I ask, is the party for?" Erik questioned as he stepped from the carriage.

"She's a friend of a friend we were asked to take care of her while she's here."

"What her name?" Christine asked.

"Johanna, and, please excuse me, but I want to make sure she's alright."

When Virginia walked away, Christine gripped Erik's arm."

"Erik...do you th-"

Before she could finish there was an ear-shattering scream.