I Came Home Early From Columbus and Found a Deed With My Name Signed on It

“I called the county clerk’s office on my way over,” Lauren said, her voice lighter now.

She tipped the chopped celery into the steaming pot on the stove.

“I told the recording clerk I want my name taken off that digital transfer filing.”

“They let you do that on the phone?” I asked, setting out two ceramic bowls.

“The clerk said if you deposit the money today, the pending file closes on its own at five o’clock.”

She dried her hands on a yellow dish towel and smiled for the first time since she’d come in.