“Now, Mrs. Patterson,” Carl said, turning his gaze to her.

“He came to my door at eight yesterday morning,” she said, her voice steady.

“He told me that my rent-control status was no longer recognized by the new management.”

“Did he use the word ‘eviction’?” Carl asked.

“He said I would be out in forty-eight hours if I didn’t sign a new lease,” she said.

“He had a clipboard with him, but he wouldn’t let me read the actual paper.”

I filled two pages of the yellow pad with their detailed statements.

When I finished writing, I read the paragraphs aloud to them.

They both listened carefully, nodding at every sentence.

“This is exactly what happened,” Mr. Alvarez said.

I handed the black pen to Mr. Alvarez first.

He signed his name slowly at the bottom of the first page, his hand shaking slightly.

Then Mrs. Patterson took the pen and signed her name with a firm, heavy stroke.

Carl took the yellow pad and held it against his chest.

“Thank you both,” Carl said, his voice thick with emotion.