My mother-in-law looked at my 38-week pregnant belly, told my husband, “Put a lock on both doors and let her give birth alone,” and then went off on a luxury trip to Aspen, paid for with my money. Seven days later, they returned tanned, smiling, and dragging suitcases full of shopping bags…

That was the moment they finally noticed the sleek digital keypad that had been installed above the original handle while they were away. They also saw the silence emanating from within the house and the bright red legal notice taped directly to the center of the wood.

Justin stepped back with a pale face while Beulah tore the paper off the door and began to read the bold words aloud. She had nothing to say for the first time in her life as she processed the formal language of the document in her hands.

The notice stated that access was restricted by a legal order and that any attempt to enter the premises would be reported to the police. It listed the name of a prominent law firm and included a final line explaining that the former occupants had already been officially notified.

“Is this some kind of ridiculous joke that Audrey is playing on us to get back at us for the trip?” Skylar asked nervously. Beulah began to scream that I was insane and that I did not have the right to lock them out of their own home.