Nothing illegal.
Nothing emotional.
Just paperwork.
It is remarkable how quickly paperwork can change a life.
About forty miles away, the Bennett family had gathered for a farewell brunch after Lauren’s wedding.
Later, I would hear every detail.
Lauren was opening gifts when Eleanor’s phone rang. She answered cheerfully.
Then her smile disappeared.
“What do you mean, the closing has been suspended?”
Across the room, Ethan looked up. His fork stopped halfway to his mouth.
Another thirty seconds passed.
Eleanor’s voice became louder.
“No, that’s impossible. The money is already there.”
Guests turned to stare.
Silence.
Then she demanded, “What authorization?”
She ended the call abruptly.
“Ethan.”
“What?”
“They’re refusing to release the house.”
He frowned.
“What are you talking about?”
“They say the funding hasn’t been approved.”
He reportedly laughed.
“There has to be a mistake.”
“There isn’t.”
“My wife handled everything.”
