I agree I am pretty sure I would have been terrified. Being a natural coward and lucky enough to have caring and supportive parents I think I would have gone to them for help. I do understand not everybody is lucky enough to be able to do that which is why I have often wondered about her background. I would guess although I don't know for certain that Julie may not have had that security. I also wonder if this could account for her lack of moral judgement at times.
Having said that we all make mistakes when growing up but if this what it was it is one humdinger of a 'mistake'.
To what moral judgements do you refer Maggie, can you be specific?
Having done some considerable research on the subject matter and having been through a similar ish experience to JM, whilst I can't talk for her, I do have some idea of how she may have felt and believe you me, no amount of caring or support would have stopped her from feeling terrified to some degree.
Realising your "partner" is a murderer is indescribable and unless you've walked in the shoes of someone who has been in that position it's unlikely you will ever truly comprehend what it feels like.