“This is what we need to show the housing court,” I said. “Along with the files on this flash drive.”

Carl nodded, his expression hardening into something cold and determined.

“I’m going to draft the official paperwork tonight,” Carl said.

“What paperwork?” Mrs. Patterson asked.

“A three-day notice to quit,” Carl said.

The words hung in the warm, humid air of the basement kitchen.

“For Mallerie and Jake,” Carl added.

“Can you do that?” Mr. Alvarez asked, a faint glimmer of hope in his eyes.

“Yes,” Carl said. “Under the law, they are occupying my owner’s apartment illegally.”

“They used fraud to take the deed, and they are actively harassing my tenants,” Carl said.

“The police will have to act once the court sees these signatures,” I said.

Carl reached into his pocket and pulled out a heavy brass key ring.

“We need to serve them tomorrow morning,” Carl said.

“Directly to Mallerie’s face,” I said.

Carl looked down at the silver flash drive resting on the table.

“She thinks she has won,” Carl whispered. “She thinks I’m just going to walk away.”