“Actually, ma’am, according to the deed records, the property is solely in the name of Calla Vance,” Officer Miller said.

He looked at Solene, his expression neutral.

“And since Mr. Vance is being arrested for a felony committed against the property owner, he will be leaving now.”

“You need to leave as well,” the officer added.

Solene stopped crying, her jaw dropping open.

“What?” she whispered. “I live here. My son brought me here.”

“You are a guest of a tenant who is being removed under criminal charges,” Officer Miller explained.

“The homeowner wants you off the property.”

“I have fifteen minutes to allow you to gather your personal items,” he said.

“If you do not leave, you will be cited for criminal trespass.”

Rylan was led toward the open door, his shoulders hunched, his head down.

The flashing lights outside caught the silver of the handcuffs as Officer Briggs guided him down the wooden porch steps.

The neighborhood was quiet, but I could see a curtain twitching in the window of the house across the street.