“The probate judge dismissed his motions with prejudice,” Samuel said.

“There is nothing left for them to dispute.”

Samuel closed his leather ledger and stood up from the oak chair.

“I will drop these signed deeds off at the county courthouse before noon,” Samuel said.

“The house is officially yours, Elena.”

“Thank you for everything, Samuel,” I said.

He gave a sharp, professional nod and walked out toward the hallway.

At eleven-thirty I drove the Buick LeSabre down to the First National Bank branch on Main Street.