The auctioneer stepped closer.
“She's been misinformed.”
“Then have your attorney contact ours.”
The auctioneer looked toward the equipment shed.
“I know that tractor's in there.”
May's father moved slightly, positioning himself between the visitor and the shed.
“You're not entering my buildings.”
The tow-truck driver looked uncomfortable.
He had been told he was collecting equipment after a canceled auction sale.
He had not expected a dispute.
He turned toward the auctioneer.
“Do you have paperwork establishing the right to pick it up?”
The auctioneer snapped.
“I told you it's mine to collect.”
The driver looked toward May's father.
Then back at the auctioneer.
“That's not what I asked.”
The auctioneer's face reddened.
May's mother appeared on the porch with her phone.
She was recording the conversation.
The auctioneer noticed.
His expression darkened.
“Put that away.”
She remained calm.
“Please leave our property.”
He looked toward her.
Then toward May.
The little girl stood near the chicken coop, holding a feed bucket.
He pointed.
“This is what happens when children get involved in adult business.”
May's father took a slow breath.
“Do not speak to my daughter.”
The auctioneer scoffed.
“She's the one who caused this mess.”
The father stepped closer.
“No. You conducted the auction. You accepted the bid. You struck the gavel. Your clerk issued the receipt.”
The auctioneer stared.
Then the father continued.
“If you believe there's a legitimate problem, resolve it through proper channels.”
The tow-truck driver nodded.
“That's what I'd recommend.”
The auctioneer spun toward him.
“I hired you to move the tractor!”
The driver folded his arms.
“And I'm not taking disputed property without authorization.”
For several seconds, the auctioneer looked ready to explode.
Then he turned toward his pickup.
“This isn't over.”
May's father nodded.
“Then send the next letter to our lawyer.”
The auctioneer climbed into his truck and slammed the door.
The tow-truck driver apologized to the family.
Then both vehicles departed.
May stood motionless.
When the driveway became quiet, her father approached.
“You all right?”
She nodded.
But her eyes were wet.
“He really wanted to take it.”
Her father crouched beside her.
“Yes.”
“Because it's special?”
“Maybe.”