My sister announced in the family group chat that I was officially banned from the reunion and she made it clear no one was to tell me where it would be. I didn’t argue. I didn’t reply. I simply opened the location pin… and laughed so hard I had to cover my mouth.

I reach for my phone and dial the emergency line for the property management office. “This is Katelyn Rossi,” I say firmly when a woman named Sarah answers. “I am standing outside my property at 12 High Dune Way, and there are intruders inside.”

“Oh no, Ms. Rossi! Are you safe?” Sarah asks with genuine panic in her voice. “We didn’t have any bookings scheduled for today. Should I call the local sheriff?”

“Yes,” I reply. “Please send the authorities immediately. I have unauthorized people occupying my home, and I want them removed now.”

I hang up and step out of the car. The heat is intense, but I feel a strange, cool steadiness in my chest. I walk up the shell driveway, the crunch of the stones sounding like a countdown.

Jason is the first one to see me as he stands on the deck with a beer. “Katelyn? What are you doing here? You weren’t supposed to have the address!” he shouts.

The music inside stops abruptly. Faces appear at the glass doors. Monica rushes out, looking indignant. “You’ve got a lot of nerve showing up where you aren’t wanted, Kate! You’re ruining the vibe already!”