“Don’t be ridiculous.

My name’s on the deed.”

“Not anymore.”

He put down his suitcase so hard that one wheel snapped against the step.

“Joanne.” His tone lowered, the way it always did when he meant to warn me without appearing to threaten.

“Stop playing games.”

From across the lawn came the click of a gate.

Patty approached wearing her navy rain jacket, carrying a manila folder and a small paper bag.

She wasn’t alone.

Beside her walked a gray-haired woman in a plum-colored blazer.

“Morning, Roger,” Patty said pleasantly.

“You’ve met my friend Denise, haven’t you?”

Roger looked from one woman to the other.

“What is this?”