Marcus took a slow breath.
“Sergeant, I’d like you to contact your supervisor immediately.”
Kyle attempted to recover.
“General, I’m conducting an investigation.”
Marcus nodded.
“Then conduct it properly.”
He looked toward Renee.
“And verify the facts before you take anyone from this property.”
Chapter 6: Four Stars Didn’t Change the Deed
Courtney had never stood so close to a four-star general.
She glanced at Marcus’s uniform.
Then at Renee.
Then toward the gray house.
Her confidence began to disappear.
Kyle, however, was still trying to defend his decision.
“Sir, your rank doesn’t give you authority over local police.”
Marcus nodded.
“You’re correct.”
The answer surprised him.
Marcus continued.
“I’m not giving you a military order. I’m asking you to verify the ownership of this property and explain the legal basis for my wife’s arrest.”
Kyle hesitated.
Marcus looked toward the porch.
“The closing documents are inside.”
Renee nodded.
“On the kitchen counter.”
Marcus turned toward the officer.
“May I retrieve them?”
Kyle glanced toward Courtney.
She looked increasingly uncomfortable.
After several seconds, he nodded.
“Keep your hands visible.”
Marcus looked at him.
“I will.”
He walked into the house.
The living room was filled with boxes.
The smell of cardboard and fresh paint hung in the air.
On the kitchen counter sat Renee’s purse.
Beside it was a thick blue folder.
Marcus opened the folder.
The first page contained their names.
Marcus Caldwell.
Renee Caldwell.
The property address matched the house.
The settlement documents showed the transaction had closed on Friday.
He returned to the driveway.
Then handed the folder to Kyle.
“Here.”
Kyle examined the pages.
His face began to change.
Marcus pointed toward the first document.
