The deed contained a notarial acknowledgment from a woman named Cynthia Bell.
But the signature appeared beside a stamp whose format didn't match the information Nora initially found in the available notary records.
That discrepancy could have several explanations.
An outdated template.
An administrative error.
An altered document.
Or something more serious.
Nora needed the underlying records before reaching conclusions.
She called Bear.
He answered on the second ring.
“Morning.”
“Caleb, I have some preliminary findings.”
Bear stepped outside his workshop.
“Tell me.”
She explained the low sale price, the disputed notarization date, and the records questions.
Bear listened without interrupting.
Then asked, “Can you stop them coming back?”
“I'm preparing a legal filing seeking temporary protection while the disputed transfer is examined.”
Bear nodded.
“What do you need?”
“Ruth's documents. Her medical appointment information. The neighbor's contact details. And every message or letter the company sent her.”
“Got it.”
Nora paused.
“And Caleb?”
“Yes?”
“Please don't go looking for Mr. Voss.”
Bear almost smiled.
“Wasn't planning on it.”
“You're a terrible liar.”
He laughed.
“I'm getting better.”
She sighed.
“Let me handle him.”
Bear became serious.
“I will.”
Then he asked, “What if the court doesn't act quickly enough?”
Nora considered the question.
“We'll use the appropriate remedies available. But Ruth doesn't have to solve this by surrendering the house simply because the company makes threats.”
Bear looked toward his motorcycle.
Then nodded.
“Okay.”
Nora's voice softened.
“And tell her something for me.”
“What?”
“This is a dispute about documents and property rights. It is not proof that she's confused or incapable.”
Bear closed his eyes.
“I think she needs to hear that.”
When Bear returned to Willow Creek Road, he found Ruth standing in the garden.
She wore a blue cotton dress beneath her cream cardigan.
Her walker rested near the porch steps.
She was pulling dead leaves from a flowerbed with slow, careful movements.
Bear parked his motorcycle.
Then walked toward her.
“Morning, Mrs. Miller.”
She looked up.
Her face brightened.
“Caleb!”
She smiled.
“I was wondering whether you'd really come.”
Bear removed his helmet.
“Told you I would.”
She looked almost embarrassed.
“I know.”
He glanced toward the flowers.
“Need some help?”
Ruth shook her head.
“I'm managing.”
He smiled.
“Then I'll supervise.”
She laughed.