“Miss Loretta, you really do keep everything.”

“People used to make fun of me for it.”

“Not today.”

Among the papers was a small note in Daniel’s handwriting: MOM’S EQUITY — TO BE REPAID WHEN WE REFINANCE.

He’d written it while we were planning the purchase, then crossed out a proposed date.

Marcus didn’t call it a victory.

He called it useful corroboration.

For me, it was something more personal.