Bear spoke.
“What should we do if they arrive?”
“Keep everyone calm. Don't threaten them. Don't interfere with any actual law enforcement process, and don't sign anything.”
Tucker nodded.
“Easy enough.”
Nora continued.
“If they're claiming authority to remove her immediately, ask them to identify the court order and the officer authorized to enforce it. Document what happens without provoking a confrontation.”
Ruth whispered, “What if they have a paper with my signature?”
“That would need to be examined. A signature on a document doesn't automatically answer questions about authenticity, authority, or fraud.”
Ruth began breathing more easily.
Nora asked whether she could speak privately with her about the documents she'd signed during the property-tax visit.
Ruth agreed.
The men moved a little farther away while she answered questions.
She explained that the visitor wore a polo shirt with a county-style emblem.
He had introduced himself as a senior assistance specialist.
He claimed to work with a community organization helping older residents reduce taxes.
He asked for identification.
He photographed certain papers.
Then he handed her a digital tablet.
Ruth remembered signing something.
But she insisted the screen had been described as an application allowing her eligibility to be checked.
She had never discussed a sale price.
Never received purchase funds.
Never agreed to transfer ownership.
And never knowingly signed a deed.
Nora listened carefully.
Then asked, “Do you remember the visitor's name?”
Ruth frowned.
“Michael, maybe.”
She looked down.
“He gave me a business card, but I don't know where it went.”
“That's all right.”
Nora paused.
“Do you have anyone who might have been present that day?”
Ruth thought for a moment.
“My neighbor came by while he was leaving.”
Nora asked for the neighbor's name and contact information.
Then she explained that she would begin reviewing the property records and seek urgent legal relief if the evidence supported it.
Finally, she addressed Bear.
“Please tell me you're not planning to handle this with your fists.”
Bear gave a small smile.
“No, ma'am.”
“I'm serious.”
“So am I.”
He looked toward Ruth.
“We're going to make sure she's safe. You handle the courtroom.”
Nora sighed.
“Good.”
Then she added, “And don't tell anybody you're her sons on a legal document.”
Luke laughed.
“Understood.”
Ruth looked embarrassed.
“Oh, dear. I didn't mean for anyone to lie under oath.”