That’s what age teaches you, if you survive enough grief. Do not spend your strength where paper can do more damage.

I called Licenciado Salgado. He answered on the second ring.

“Activate the protocol,” I said. “Property of Coyoacán. Yes, now. Send security, notary, and the complete folder.”

Doña Rebeca laughed. “Are you going to call the police because your little daughter washed some dishes?”

“No,” I said.

Andrés folded his arms. “Then who?”