Beside the driveway stood a freshly planted sign with a red banner across it: “SOLD.” Below it hung a second sign from the county, a notice of transfer. Megan’s mouth fell open. Trevor walked up behind her, still smiling, and read it over her shoulder. The smile melted. “Megan,” he said slowly, “what is this?” Before she could answer, a silver sedan rolled in, and Barbara Hines stepped out holding a folder.

“Welcome,” Barbara said brightly. “I assume you are the family who was planning to stay?” Megan whispered, “There must be a mistake, my mother owns this house.” Barbara nodded. “She did, until two weeks ago. The new owners take possession tonight.” Megan’s hands began to shake as she pulled out her phone. Then a white truck pulled up behind the sedan, and I watched the camera feed as the neighbors climbed out, carrying keys.