I’d barely set my suitcases down at the cottage when my daughter-in-law called. “We’re on our way—twenty of our family. Make sure everything is ready for our two-week stay.” I smiled to myself… and started planning my next steps.

“Mom,” he said quietly. “We’re here.”

“Yes,” I replied. “It looks that way.”

Ashley clapped her hands. “Okay, everyone! Let’s start unpacking. Bags on the porch. Can someone help me carry the coolers? Mom probably doesn’t have enough.”

Before anyone could move, a white town car pulled into the driveway.

Ashley froze.

A woman in a navy blue windbreaker stepped out and opened her badge.
“Good morning,” she said politely. “I’m Emily Parker from the Lakeside Community Planning and Safety Department. Are you planning to stay here?”

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Ashley blinked. “What? We’re visiting family—why is there a zoning restriction?”

Emily smiled. “Last night, we received notice that a large group was planning to occupy this property. For safety reasons, gatherings of more than six people overnight require an inspection and a temporary event permit.”

Ashley turned to me. “Did you zone us?”

“Oh yes,” I said gently. “This cottage is legally designed for two people. Three, if we get creative. But twenty-one, on the other hand…” I gestured at the group. “That would violate several regulations.”

Emily was already approaching the house. “How many bedrooms?”