You know how she’s been lately.”

How she’s been lately. The implication hung in the air, toxic and heavy.

“Explain,” I said.

Ethan sighed and ran a hand through his hair, playing the exhausted, responsible adult. “Her memory, Dad. It’s slipping. She left the stove on twice last month.

She’s forgetting things. Ashley and I talked about it. This property is huge. It’s a liability. You’re both getting older, and someone needs to step up and manage the assets before things get dangerous.

We’re moving in. It’s the only logical step to protect the family estate.”