“Julian Vance?”
“Yes.”
“We have an emergency protective order concerning Margaret Vance. You and Chloe Vance are prohibited from contact with her pending investigation. You are required to leave the premises immediately.”
“This is insane,” Chloe shouted. “She’s confused!”
The APS investigator stepped forward.
“My name is Renee Dalton. We need to speak with Mrs. Vance privately.”
Julian blocked the doorway.
“You cannot enter my house.”
“It’s not your house,” I said.
He turned on me.
“My name is on the deed.”
That surprised me.
Not because I believed him, but because he said it with confidence.
Mercer lowered the order.
“Step aside, sir.”
Julian did not move.
One deputy placed a hand near his belt.
Slowly, Julian backed away.
The officers entered.
Renee followed me upstairs. The nurse examined Mother while I explained what I had found. When Mother saw the uniforms, she began crying so hard that she could barely speak.
