My sister announced in the family group chat that I was officially banned from the reunion—and 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.

It rings twice.

“Tidemark Property Care, this is Sarah. How can I help you?”

Her voice is professional, crisp, entirely unaware that she is about to become part of one of the most satisfying moments of my life.

I clear my throat once. My voice comes out level.

“Hello, Sarah. This is Skyla Morales. I’m the owner of the property at 42 Dune Grass Lane.”

A pause. Typing.

“Yes, Ms. Morales. We have your file here. We weren’t expecting you until tomorrow for the inspection. Is everything all right?”

I look up at the silhouette of my mother now visible through the upstairs balcony doors.

“No,” I say. “Everything is not all right. I am currently outside the property, and there are unauthorized individuals inside my home. They have accessed the premises using a security code and are occupying the house without my consent.”

The shift in Sarah’s tone is immediate.

“Oh my goodness. Are you safe?”

“Yes.”

“Do you want us to contact law enforcement?”

“Yes. Please notify the sheriff’s department that there is an active unauthorized entry situation at the property, and send your on-call manager immediately. I’ll meet them here.”