My husband arrived at my door with my cousin, two babies, and a smug grin, declaring, ‘She lives here now.’ I handed him the keys, smiled back, and said “HOPE YOU ENJOY THE HOUSE UNTIL TOMORROW”

By two, my friend Megan called.

She managed properties across the city and knew everything before it became public.

“Tell me you didn’t let him stay,” she said.

I leaned back in my chair. “I let him think he could.”

She laughed, low and satisfied. “Good. Also—your cousin? She’s been calling around for short-term rentals. Sounded desperate.”

That gave me continue reading …