heavy weight of his hubris finally crushing him.
As the police cruisers pulled away, the flashing red and blue lights finally vanished,
leaving Briar Glen Lane exactly as quiet as it had been twenty minutes prior. The
curtains in the neighboring houses closed abruptly.
Evelyn stood on her porch, breathing in the crisp October air. The confrontation had
been exhausting, yet invigorating. She had drawn a line in the pristine concrete of
Fairview Oaks, a line that would not be crossed again.
She looked down at her empty mug, then pushed her front door open. It was time for a
fresh pot of dark roast. The neighborhood had learned its lesson, and Evelyn Carter, Chief
Judge and new homeowner, planned to enjoy the rest of her Saturday in absolute,
undisturbed peace.