That’s why you filed a preliminary lien you never had any right to file, and why you’ve been rushing this one for all it’s worth.”

Courtney took half a step back toward the Explorer at the curb.

Charles didn’t turn around.

“You think Samantha Vance can undo thirty years of Baldwin control in an afternoon?”

“I think she can undo your signature,” I said.

“I think she just did.”

The ambulance turned the corner and came down Maple Street with its lights on, quiet, no siren.

It pulled up at the curb in front of the Explorer, and two paramedics came up the walk with a stretcher and a bag.