“We would be required to clear the fourth floor entirely.

The authorities would conduct formal interviews in the main dining room.”

Local police cars would park in the front drive.

The blue lights would shine straight into the guest rooms.

“Any vendors arriving at sunrise would be turned away at the main gate,” Thomas said.

Ethan’s parents would wake up to sirens in the courtyard.

The whole morning would turn into a huge public spectacle.

The photographer would be documenting a crime scene instead of a first look.