Chapter 4 - The Law Arrives
Before Rebecca could speak, the glare of headlights washed over the crowd. A Dare County Sheriff’s cruiser pulled into the driveway, its roof lights casting flashing blue reflections across the coastal house.
Deputy Miller stepped out of the vehicle, his hand resting casually near his belt as he observed the crowd gathered on the porch.
"Evening, everyone," Deputy Miller said, walking up toward the porch steps. "Ms. Turner, is everything all right here?"
"Officer!" Rebecca rushed to the railing, pointing an angry finger at Layla. "Thank goodness you’re here. This is my daughter, and she’s trespassing on private family property. She’s locking us out of my late mother’s house on Christmas Eve!"
Deputy Miller looked at Rebecca, then at Layla. "May I see the documentation, Ms. Turner?"
Layla handed the blue-bound legal folder to the deputy. He opened it under his flashlight, carefully reviewing the court-certified copy of Eleanor Turner’s last will and testament, along with the recorded property deed bearing Layla’s name as sole owner.
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After a long minute, Deputy Miller closed the folder and handed it back to Layla. He turned to face Rebecca and the crowd.
"Ma'am, this property is registered solely under Layla Turner," Deputy Miller said firmly. "She is the legal owner of this home. If she asks you to leave her land, you must comply immediately, or you will be cited for civil trespass."
