On the third day, the comments on Sheryl's post hit two hundred and eleven, and then she turned commenting off, and then she posted again.
UPDATE, it said. I want to thank everyone for their kind words and support during what has been a frightening and humiliating time for my family. I have been advised not to share details, but I can say that the police have reviewed security footage which shows the individual entering the property where my belongings were found, and that I have personally identified him. The Board will hold an open hearing next Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the clubhouse. ALL residents are encouraged to attend. Your voice matters.
"She's describing your phone screen," Rhoda said, when I read it to her. "The officer looked at your phone. That's 'the police have reviewed security footage.' She's out on a branch. Let her sit there."
On the fourth day, Pippa called me from Lydia's house at bedtime, which she was not supposed to do on a school night, and I could tell from the hush in her voice that she was under the covers.
"Dad. A girl at school asked me if you're going to jail."
I closed my eyes. "What did you say?"
"I said no, because you have 4K." A pause. "Was that right?"
"That was exactly right."
"She didn't know what 4K was. I explained it to her. It took a while." Another pause. "Is Marigold okay? Did you check the shed cam?"
"I checked it. She came by last night around two. She looked fat and grumpy."
"Good," Pippa said, with deep satisfaction. "Okay. Good night. I love you. Don't tell Mom I called."
On the fifth day, Doug Mattingly came to my door.