Harold’s finger rested on the page. “The owner asked me to remind you of clause nine,” he said calmly. “Any tenant who orders a member of the owner’s family out of the premises forfeits the lease immediately.” Franklin’s cigar slid from his fingers. Delphine grabbed the doorframe and whispered, “Owner? What owner?” Tabitha’s smile had vanished completely, and Grayson stepped quietly away from her.

Harold turned the folder so everyone could read the last page. Beside Franklin’s signature, printed in clean black letters, was the owner’s name: Claire Whitfield Holdings. Franklin’s face turned gray. Delphine slowly shook her head. Upstairs, a measuring tape clattered down the staircase, and Tabitha appeared at the top step, staring down at all of them.