The kitchen had bright white cabinets and a large window overlooking a small fenced backyard.

“I still expect a landlord to walk in and demand rent,” I said.

“You’re the landlord now,” Arthur said.

“The deed is recorded with the county entirely in your name.”

I opened a cabinet door and closed it again just to hear the soft click of the hinges.

I didn’t owe anyone a single dollar.

“Mr.

Miller called my office an hour ago,” Arthur said.