“Your late husband’s estate was filed six years ago, Margaret,” Attorney Lin said, speaking so slowly that every single word felt measured with a ruler.

He reached into the folder and pulled out a large document covered in faded blue ink.

“I need to know exactly what I own, Mr.

Lin, down to the last pebble,” I said.

Attorney Lin unlaced his fingers and placed a heavy palm over the faded paper.

“The county records show that the forty acres in the valley remain active and entirely in your sole name,” he said.

“However, I need you to gather every original land deed and tax receipt from your house and bring them to me immediately.”