My father found his voice on the porch.

He drew himself up into the posture I’d watched intimidate contractors and waiters and city councilmen my whole life, and he barked, “Now see here — this is private property.

I don’t know what my daughter has arranged, but you will get these vehicles off my driveway immediately.” Okoye turned to him then, without hurry.

“Sir, I’m acting on orders from the Department of Defense under Title 10 of the U.S.

Code.

As of this morning, this property is designated an active military asset connected to the estate of Major Nikolai Brightwood.” Delphina made a small sound. “Major?” She looked at me as though I’d struck her.