His power over my lease and the business permits felt like a noose tightening around my neck.
In the past week, things had spiraled.
A delayed rent notice came with an ultimatum.
Then, a city hall manager appeared at the bookstore, asking questions about my lease and usage.
Most recently, Mr. Halstead’s terse voicemail suggested I reconsider my plans to stay—no direct threat, just an unmistakable warning.