Chapter 10: Preston’s Mistake
“You cut down six mature trees on property you do not own,” I said.
Preston’s voice sharpened.
“The HOA acted in good faith.”
“Good faith usually involves permission.”
“You should be careful, Mr. Hale. Cedar Ridge has significant resources.”
There it was.
The polite threat.
People like Preston never think they are bullying you. They think they are reminding you of the natural order.
I looked out my window at the empty eastern fence line.
The afternoon sun fell straight into my yard now, harsh and exposed.
“Preston,” I said, “you should talk to my attorney.”
“I’d prefer we settle this neighbor to neighbor.”
“We’re not neighbors. You’re trespassers.”
Then I hung up.
Two hours later, Dana called.
“You didn’t threaten him, did you?”
“No.”
“Good,” she said. “Because I’m about to.”
The lawsuit was only the beginning… Continue Reading ⬇️