“Because the association is planning landscape improvements.”
I stared at her.
“On my property?”
She gave me a cold smile.
“You've been informed about the conservation program.”
I took a breath.
“No. I've been told I should buy irrigation services from your preferred contractor.”
Patricia's expression hardened.
Camila raised one hand.
“Let's not argue. Ms. Voss, we'll document the statement and address any relevant property questions through the appropriate process.”
The detective turned toward me.
“Mr. Brooks, do you have a copy of the governing documents and the notices?”
“Yes.”
She nodded.
“Please preserve them.”
Then she asked whether I had already arranged professional repair of the sprinkler.
I explained that I intended to contact the licensed contractor who maintained the system, but I hadn't wanted anyone disturbing the scene before the officers documented it.
Camila agreed.
That afternoon, after the evidence had been recorded, the officers took the steps they considered appropriate based on the suspected unauthorized entry and property damage. Patricia was not allowed to continue roaming my backyard, and the matter was referred for further investigation and charging review.
She was furious.
As she walked toward the side gate, she turned toward me.
“You've made a terrible mistake, Daniel.”
I stared.
Then answered quietly.
“No, Patricia. I didn't bring the hammer.”
Her face reddened.
She opened her mouth.
Then closed it.
The patrol officer directed her to continue toward the gate.
For several seconds, I watched her leave.
The dusty-pink pantsuit.
The blonde hair.
The pearl earrings.
Everything about her looked polished.
But I'd just watched her smash a sprinkler in my daughter's garden and threaten further destruction.
I wondered how many other people had believed her simply because she looked like somebody who belonged in charge.
Camila approached after Patricia was gone.
“Mr. Brooks.”
I turned.
“Yes?”
She looked toward the flower bed.
“I want to discuss the earlier incidents.”
I nodded.
She continued.
“This one provides direct evidence of what happened today. It doesn't automatically prove she committed the previous acts.”