That became the kind of owner I wanted to be.

Not a stranger who walked through once a year for photographs, but someone who understood the people behind the balance sheet and also respected the people trained to run the building.

I asked Denise to prepare a transparent annual update for staff and tenants on the major repairs, with contact details for questions.

It wasn’t a miraculous reform.

It was work that would continue after the luncheon and after my name faded from anyone’s memory.

When I returned home, I found an envelope from Brielle on the kitchen counter.