A local developer called Blackstone Orchard LLC had applied to build a cluster of luxury homes on adjoining parcels.

The proposed access road crossed the exact strip my father wanted.

“So that’s why he needs my land,” I said.

“It’s one possible motive,” Mara corrected.

“The developer can’t assume it has access without the necessary rights.

We need to understand whether an enforceable agreement exists.”

A public filing contained the name of the development company’s representative: Caroline Mercer.

She had served on the nonprofit board during the last year of Walter’s life.