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I turned to the officer. “And I’d appreciate it if you’d review these documents before allowing anyone onto my property.”
The constable took the folder, his expression neutral, as he began examining the contents.
I thought of Joshua’s video, of the secret he’d kept to spare me and Jenna unnecessary pain, of the magnificent gift he’d created in his final years. Whatever game his brothers were playing, I was determined not to lose the last tangible expression of my husband’s love without a fight.
The constable looked up from the documents. His expression changed.
“These appear to be in order, Mrs. Mitchell. A clear deed transfer, properly notarized statements, even certified bank records of the original purchase.”
He turned to the brothers. “Gentlemen, I don’t see grounds for forcing an inspection today. This appears to be a matter for the civil courts.”
Robert’s face flushed with anger. “This is outrageous. That woman has no right—”
“That woman,” I interjected calmly, “is Joshua Mitchell’s wife. And I have every right to be here.”
As the brothers reluctantly retreated to their vehicle, followed by the apologetic constable, I felt a strange sense of both loss and discovery. The husband I thought I knew completely had kept secrets—some painful, others breathtakingly beautiful.
Now I faced a choice: retreat to the safety of my familiar life, or step fully into this unexpected legacy and the battle that came with it.
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