Whitmore,” Deputy Miller said, looking up from his form.

“A formal complaint was filed this morning about illegal residential lodging in an unzoned agricultural building.”

Nathaniel set his hand against the cold barn frame.

“I gave her the spare site key to the heating barn myself.”

“The complainant claims you don’t have sole occupancy rights while the title to the land is under legal dispute,” Deputy Miller said.

“I have orders from the sheriff to clear the building immediately.”

Martha zipped her duffel bag shut and tucked a small box of paper stars into her coat pocket.