aid it’s his now. He said I have one hour to get my things and go before he calls the sheriff.”

Ben turned, his face hardening as he recognized me. He was wearing an expensive, arrogant suit, a clear and deliberate costume of his newfound confidence and power. “Stay out of this, Anna,” he snarled, his voice a low, proprietary growl. “This is a private family matter. This is Miller property now. And she is trespassing.”

“But… this is Grandma’s house!” Elaine cried, her voice breaking as she reached for a small, porcelain box of trinkets, a gift from her late husband.

“Was,” Ben corrected, his voice a low, vicious sneer that he didn’t bother to hide. “It was. Now it’s mine. The deed is in my name, filed and recorded with the county. I’ve already paid the back taxes she so conveniently ‘forgot’ about. It’s a shame, really. Grandma always knew you were too soft to handle her affairs, Elaine. She knew I was the only one strong enough to protect her legacy.” He dangled the keys in front of her, a small, cruel gesture of absolute power. “Get off the property before I call the police and have you both removed for trespassing.”