“The county records desk has already flagged the fraudulent filing.

If this goes in front of a judge, the land registry dispute will set off a formal audit of your bank loan application.”

Brandon didn’t move.

He didn’t look at Melissa.

“Is that really true?” Melissa asked him.

Brandon rubbed the back of his neck again, his knuckles white against his hair.

“We don’t have the legal standing, Melissa.”

“So we just leave?” she asked.