The Romanos had no legal claim to the property.

They had forced my mother out using forged documents and false accusations of theft.

This paper changed everything.

I pulled out my phone and dialed Denise’s number.

It rang three times before she answered, her voice thick with sleep.

“Harper?” she asked. “Is everything okay?”

“I have it,” I whispered, my voice trembling with emotion.

“I have the original deed.”

There was a long silence on the line.

“Are you safe?” she asked, her voice suddenly sharp and alert.

“I’m in a cab,” I said. “I’m coming to your office now.”

“No, don’t come here,” she said quickly.

“The sedan is still parked outside my building.”

“They are watching me.”

“Where should I go?” I asked.

“Go to the diner on Eighth Street,” she said.

“It’s open twenty-four hours.”

“I will meet you there in twenty minutes.”

“Be careful, Harper.”

“I will,” I said.

I hung up and looked out the window.

The city was quiet, wrapped in a blanket of grey rain and fog.

I felt a sudden pang of guilt for leaving Mr. Alvarez behind.