Beside her stood Evelyn Whitmore, her fingers clutching a diamond necklace at her throat.

Vanessa looked up, her blue eyes widening in surprise as Nathan and I burst through the door.

“Emily?” Vanessa asked, stepping forward. “What is going on here? Why are there security trucks on the tarmac?”

Evelyn grabbed Vanessa’s arm, her face pale and tight.

“Don’t speak to them, Vanessa,” Evelyn hissed. “It’s a misunderstanding. The pilot will clear it up.”

I walked straight up to Vanessa, my hands shaking.

“Where is Rosie, Vanessa?” I demanded. “Where is my daughter?”

Vanessa frowned, looking from me to Evelyn.

“Rosie?” Vanessa asked. “She isn’t here. Grant told me we were flying to Atlanta for a campaign fundraiser.”

“He lied to you,” I said, my voice cracking. “He took Rosie from her school. He’s trying to take her out of the country.”

Vanessa turned her head slowly toward Evelyn.

“Evelyn, what is she talking about?” Vanessa asked.

Evelyn smoothed her coat, her expression hardening into a cold mask.

“It is a family custody matter, Vanessa,” Evelyn said coldly. “It doesn’t concern you. Just get on the plane.”