the property.
There was no treasure.
No hidden fortune.
But the land itself was peaceful.
A seasonal creek crossed the back acreage.
Oak trees shaded one ridge.
The old road offered enough access that, according to Inez, the property might have practical value.
Derek stood in the surviving shed for a long time.
“What are you thinking?” I asked.
He looked embarrassed.
“Nothing.”
“That’s never true.”
He kicked gently at a curled wood shaving that might have been older than either of us.
“I could move the restoration work here.”
