The car rolled to a stop at the iron gates of a mansion that looked like it had been designed to impress rather than welcome. White columns. A circular drive. A fountain that probably cost more than most people's houses. The security guard at the gate glanced at the driver, then at the passenger, and gave a respectful nod before the gates swung open.

The driveway was long, lined with palm trees that swayed lazily in the warm breeze. As the car pulled up to the front entrance, the roar of laughter and the thud of something heavy hitting the floor echoed through the open windows. The front door was slightly ajar.

Inside, the living room was a mess. A bowl of popcorn had been knocked over, kernels scattered across the marble floor. The big-screen TV was playing some action movie, volume cranked. On the leather sectional, five guys were sprawled out, mid-laugh, a half-empty six-pack of Coors on the coffee table.