{"id":4503,"date":"2024-12-22T07:23:40","date_gmt":"2024-12-22T07:23:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/scenicwhispers.com\/?p=4503"},"modified":"2024-12-22T07:23:42","modified_gmt":"2024-12-22T07:23:42","slug":"i-stepped-outside-to-find-a-huge-pile-of-trash-in-my-yard-across-the-street-my-neighbor-smirked-after-our-argument-the-day-before","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/scenicwhispers.com\/archives\/4503","title":{"rendered":"I Stepped Outside to Find a Huge Pile of Trash in My Yard \u2014 Across the Street, My Neighbor Smirked After Our Argument the Day Before"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class='\"entry-header\"'>\n<div class='\"entry-content\"'>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36' contentrenderer_paragraph-first___d_vf>When I stepped outside that morning, my jaw dropped at the sight of an enormous trash pile blocking my driveway. Across the street, my neighbor Andy stood with a smug grin, sipping his coffee like he\u2019d just won some twisted game. Little did he know, he\u2019d messed with the wrong woman.\n</p><div class='\"code-block' code-block-2>\n<div data-type='\"_mgwidget\"' data-widget-id='\"1704767\"' data-uid='\"14cc1\"'>\n<div id='\"mgw1704767_14cc1\"'>\n<div>\n<div class='\"mgbox' card-media>\n\n\n\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Living in a new neighborhood is supposed to be exciting. Fresh starts, new friends, and a chance to settle into a new rhythm. But apparently, it also meant dealing with the most obnoxious neighbor I\u2019d ever encountered.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>What started as a simple argument escalated into something far stinkier. Literally.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/C_QWSGVM04JBXer4qRXyU5C9m6uFBiPuc7qqxfmzNPg\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNDE1Y2JjZTQ0ZDc1ZDQwNTEwNDc4MmM4NGE1ZDJhOTNmMDlhMWVhN2ZjMmYxZWM0ZjkxNmI3NGEyY2YzNjg3OS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTM0NCZoZWlnaHQ9ODk2.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/415cbce44d75d405104782c84a5d2a93f09a1ea7fc2f1ec4f916b74a2cf36879.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman standing outside her house source: midjourney width='\"1344\"' height='\"896\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A woman standing outside her house\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>It was a usual Wednesday morning, and I was getting ready for work, coffee in one hand, keys in the other. Everything was going smoothly, or at least it was until I stepped out of my front door.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>That\u2019s when I saw it. A mountain of trash, right there in my yard.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Trash bags, empty food containers, old newspapers, and even what looked like a broken chair were piled so high I couldn\u2019t even get to my car.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>And the smell? Let\u2019s just say I gagged the moment it hit me.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/h42BcsUTlzzydavV8tHjp-JNGdUA9K8bEX1wKuloPnE\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzkyNWYzZDNiYTkxNjk1YTA0NjM3YTgyY2ZhNmNhNTM2MjcxMjcwN2NiNDljNGMyYzFlZDE5YjI3MDMxNDcyMC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/c925f3d3ba91695a04637a82cfa6ca5362712707cb49c4c2c1ed19b270314720.png%5C%22" alt='\"Trash' outside a door source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>Trash outside a door\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>What the heck?\u00a0I thought, staring at the mess in disbelief.\u00a0<i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>Who does something like this?\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>As I looked around for some kind of explanation, my eyes landed on my not-so-nice neighbor, Andy.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He was standing across the street on his porch, sipping his coffee and grinning like the Cheshire cat.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>His smug expression said it all.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Of course, it was him. Who else would pull a stunt like this?\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/pA0rW2weVLrsZHQRvKwq3jwyoj5C2G4L4VASsO7TjVw\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTIyMDhiOGMwOGFhOTBkMmE5N2E1OGIyODc2NDA0NGI3MzdkMDNjYTdmZmYzZjM0OTFhNzAyYTAyYzA4OTFlNy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/a2208b8c08aa90d2a97a58b28764044b737d03ca7fff3f3491a702a02c0891e7.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' man standing outside his house source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A man standing outside his house\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I glared at him, and he raised his mug in a mock toast before turning and heading back inside. My hands clenched into fists.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>If he thought this was funny, he had no idea who he was messing with.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>But before I get to what I did next, let me give you some context.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I moved into this neighborhood about three months ago. It\u2019s a quiet, charming little street, and most of the neighbors were friendly and welcoming. Honestly, I thought I\u2019d hit the jackpot.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/rXFlrIL4dnEtcG3uiSr3EGdeoTniIvtycTjd8hGPAqc\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOTNjNjg4MmEyM2JiZjlhZTQwNjg0YmZiZjJiNjdkOTk2OTRmNTRmMDQxYmVlNGM4NjAxYmNkNzZjYzJmYzdiYS5qcGc_d2lkdGg9MTkyMCZoZWlnaHQ9MTI4MA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/93c6882a23bbf9ae40684bfbf2b67d99694f54f041bee4c8601bcd76cc2fc7ba.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"A' residential street source: pexels width='\"1920\"' height='\"1280\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A residential street\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Even Andy seemed fine at first. He came over when I was moving in, introduced himself, and even offered to help unload some boxes.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWelcome to the neighborhood!\u201d he\u2019d said, flashing a big smile. \u201cI\u2019m Andy, and I live right across the street.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHi, Andy,\u201d I\u2019d replied. \u201cThank you so much for the help.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/M9ilV2A4AVXIosSHwClcJwXOiDXARWFkaOoToJmSuwE\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDZmNDRjYmViZmU0YTc1ZWY1NTMzZTJjZWM2MzVmNTJiNzRiMzE4ZDAyZTg0NWQ1ZDNjOWM0NWQxNWZjYzliYi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/d6f44cbebfe4a75ef5533e2cec635f52b74b318d02e845d5d3c9c45d15fcc9bb.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman talking to a man source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A woman talking to a man\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He even told me never to hesitate knocking on his door if I needed help. Back then, I thought he was such a sweet man. He told me he lived alone after parting ways with his wife, and had a job in tech.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I really thought he was a nice man, but then his true colors started to show.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>For one, he had this habit of leaving his trash bags on the street instead of putting them in the can.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/h2oaQa0Zzi0s9AhzxrZHkrfL-4XfYAW2G9pUn-sYNrY\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzVkY2U0NjJmN2U4ZjExZWEyNzE2NGVlYzk1ZDllMGMyZGNiMWQ0MjBjZmU1OGVlMmIzN2VhMjQ3ODIzOTYxZC5qcGc_d2lkdGg9MTkyMCZoZWlnaHQ9MTQ0MA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/c5dce462f7e8f11ea27164eec95d9e0c2dcb1d420cfe58ee2b37ea247823961d.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"A' garbage bag source: pexels width='\"1920\"' height='\"1440\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A garbage bag\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>At first, I ignored it, figuring it wasn\u2019t my business. But when the stray cats got into the bags and spread garbage everywhere, it started to bother me.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Then there were his late-night DIY projects. I\u2019m talking power tools at midnight.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cIs he building a rocket ship?\u201d I\u2019d once joked to another neighbor.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>She rolled her eyes and said, \u201cThis isn\u2019t something new, Evelyn. He\u2019s been doing this for months now. I wonder what he\u2019s building in there.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Still, I let it slide. Live and let live, right?\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>But everything came to a head yesterday morning.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/NcMeZcOAm5UaZqw6hXlaGTkN2Yk8WYeVE6ZHSOrpJAo\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzNjNDcyYTAzMTYwMTNmYjUwNjhjNDkwZDA0NWI5NDNmMzJjMDQ0MzI4NjgwNTJjOTU2ZWIwMTgyM2NjMTQxNy5qcGc_d2lkdGg9MTkyMCZoZWlnaHQ9Mjg4MA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/c3c472a0316013fb5068c490d045b943f32c04432868052c956eb01823cc1417.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"A' street basked in sunlight source: pexels width='\"1920\"' height='\"2880\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A street basked in sunlight\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I was heading out for work when I saw Andy dragging another trash bag to the curb. Not to the can, mind you, just dumping it there like the street was his personal landfill.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>This time, I couldn\u2019t keep quiet.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHey, Andy!\u201d I called out, marching toward him. \u201cDo you think you could actually put your trash in the can for once?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Andy turned to me with that annoying smirk. \u201cWhat\u2019s the big deal? It\u2019s just trash.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/H_f1D5hbBJISMYWAlA_pGnTpsHIu5_G-JtxJcW0b0YA\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vOGE1OWJlY2I4YTNlMGQ0NWU3ODllOThmMWVmNDM0NzIwMzQ5NTk0MjY2Y2JkNjVlYTMzODkzZWFjNTAxODM1YS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/8a59becb8a3e0d45e789e98f1ef434720349594266cbd65ea33893eac501835a.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' man talking to his neighbor source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A man talking to his neighbor\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThe big deal,\u201d I said, crossing my arms, \u201cis that the rest of us have to deal with the mess when stray cats tear it open. It\u2019s disgusting.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cNot my problem,\u201d he shrugged. \u201cCats are everywhere. What do you want me to do, Evelyn? Build a fence around the whole street?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cHere\u2019s a wild idea,\u201d I shot back. \u201cHow about you just use the trash can? It\u2019s literally right there.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Andy snorted. \u201cYou sound like my ex. Always telling me what to do.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/ueQhOFQusbKcpU5xSZRFo7OMB2bvSszoVMNVuOg-Sh0\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMGQyNDBmNWM1MTAyMWY4MmIxNDY0ZTI2Yzk5YTg1M2MxZDM5OTFmOTFiNzVjZTNiMDExNWQxYjEyZjkwODQzYy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/0d240f5c51021f82b1464e26c99a853c1d3991f91b75ce3b0115d1b12f90843c.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' man standing outside his house source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A man standing outside his house\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWell, maybe your ex had a point,\u201d I snapped, regretting the words as soon as they left my mouth.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>That wiped the smirk off his face.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He took a step closer, his tone turning icy. \u201cListen, lady, I don\u2019t need you lecturing me about my trash habits. Mind your own business.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThis is my business,\u201d I retorted, gesturing toward the street. \u201cWe all live here, Andy. Maybe try being a decent neighbor for once.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/87PCyliXsixXUyILk-E3pi087TmqDzYBoVOepm5L1QA\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYjM2NjFhY2ViZjY4YzVkYzQyZDkzZjk0OTI3ZDdjNGY5ZWNlNDdlNGFkZjVkNzQwMWU3NjljNjYxZWI2Yzk3Yy5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/b3661acebf68c5dc42d93f94927d7c4f9ece47e4adf5d7401e769c661eb6c97c.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' serious woman standing outdoors source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A serious woman standing outdoors\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou\u2019ve got a lot to say for someone who\u2019s been here, what, three months?\u201d he said. \u201cMaybe you should learn to keep your nose out of other people\u2019s lives.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I stared at him, stunned by his arrogance. \u201cAnd maybe you should learn some basic manners.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Andy let out a sharp laugh, stepping back toward his house. \u201cDon\u2019t worry, Evelyn. I\u2019ll teach you what manners are.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Before I could respond, he disappeared inside, slamming the door behind him. I stood there for a moment, fuming, before shaking my head and heading to my car.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/PEVcbQEnzIrvYVG04h6JXh9bgFt3bfSGD7bO-BOzu4g\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjQ1ZmZkODFhODYwY2E5N2MwYTc4NzIzNWJhMzA0MTgyYjU1OGZmM2FlZGVlYTZkZDZkZGIzZjBlYTE0OWQ0Mi5qcGc_d2lkdGg9MTkyMCZoZWlnaHQ9MTI4Mg.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/645ffd81a860ca97c0a787235ba304182b558ff3aedeea6dd6ddb3f0ea149d42.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman in her car source: pexels width='\"1920\"' height='\"1282\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A woman in her car\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>What a jerk,\u00a0I thought.\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>But I didn\u2019t have time to dwell on his annoying habits. I had a busy day ahead, and I wasn\u2019t about to let him ruin it.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>By the time I got home that evening, I\u2019d mostly forgotten about Andy and his trash bags. I had dinner, caught up on some emails, and went to bed, thinking it was just another day in the neighborhood.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>But when I woke up the next morning and saw that pile of trash blocking my driveway, I realized Andy wasn\u2019t just an inconsiderate neighbor.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He was also a petty one.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/9nWLEkdesW82OweKkigbElwyrifExriDSNxA-PL-jeY\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDk2ZDk3NGIyZGZjNzQxNTM3MmM0MDkwODdlY2RlZjQ0MzE2Y2VlZTFkOTk3MmQ5ZjdjMjJiZGJjYjEyNzJjMi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/d96d974b2dfc7415372c409087ecdef44316ceee1d9972d9f7c22bdbcb1272c2.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman standing outside her house source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A woman standing outside her house\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>And if this was his idea of payback, well, let\u2019s just say I had a plan to make sure he never tried it again.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I somehow managed to make it to work that day, though the image of Andy\u2019s smug face stayed with me. My stomach churned every time I thought about the pile of trash blocking my yard.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>But instead of letting my anger fester, I decided to channel it into action.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/6e8ldbu6OBgjks9ZBK40fVJH9YmNA4TF5UStmh0l2TU\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vN2Q1Yzg4ZDM4YjY3OTkyYTU0NjUxOTA4NzkwMDc2MjE5OWFhZDNmNjJhMGVmZDQ4YjljOTY4ZmVhZTExOWFmNC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/7d5c88d38b67992a546519087900762199aad3f62a0efd48b9c968feae119af4.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman looking straight ahead source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A woman looking straight ahead\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>During my lunch break, I pulled out my phone and called Brandon, an old friend of mine who owned a transport service. If anyone could help me execute my plan, it was him.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cEvelyn!\u201d he answered cheerfully. \u201cWhat\u2019s up?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI need a favor,\u201d I said.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cOf course you do,\u201d he chuckled. \u201cWhat is it this time? Moving furniture? Fixing your car?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cActually, I need an excavator.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>There was a long pause before Brandon burst out laughing. \u201cAn excavator? What the heck, Evelyn? What are you planning to do, dig up your entire yard?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/fgzEg70UrYdNkIWVzLxx-HMXNyVBp5LxjGXq0cqkc-Q\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMzk0ZTNiMGE4ZWQ3NjJmYjNiMmE2MTMwYzI2NmJkMWQzZDQyNDE0OGZmN2Q0M2VmNzQ2MTc1YWM0ZTU3MzVlMS5qcGc_d2lkdGg9MTkyMCZoZWlnaHQ9MTI4MA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/394e3b0a8ed762fb3b2a6130c266bd1d3d424148ff7d43ef746175ac4e5735e1.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman using her phone source: pexels width='\"1920\"' height='\"1280\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A woman using her phone\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cSomething like that,\u201d I said cryptically, not ready to spill the details just yet. \u201cCan you bring one over to my house late tonight?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cTonight?\u201d His tone turned skeptical. \u201cEvelyn, what are you up to?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cI promise I\u2019ll explain later,\u201d I said, trying to sound as convincing as possible. \u201cJust trust me on this. I need it. Please?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Brandon sighed. \u201cYou\u2019re lucky you\u2019re my friend. Fine, I\u2019ll be there around midnight. But you\u2019d better not get me into trouble.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou\u2019re the best,\u201d I said with a grin. \u201cI owe you one.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/QsjxIOClQKhjXeq7IEbQHYCd0A6eYfIReqTW_5cyFss\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYzdlMGRlYzZjYmRiM2M3NjI0ZjVmNTY4ZWZiOWUxMmQwZjI1MGI5NTg1YmIzOTk4OGVlYzNjNWE5OTQzMTRmMS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/c7e0dec6cbdb3c7624f5f568efb9e12d0f250b9585bb39988eec3c5a994314f1.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman talking to her friend source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A woman talking to her friend\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>When I got home later that evening, Andy was out on his porch again, sipping his coffee. As I walked up to my house, he called out, \u201cHow\u2019s the trash, Evelyn? Smells nice, doesn\u2019t it?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I clenched my jaw and ignored him, walking straight inside without giving him the satisfaction of a response.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>Just wait, Andy,\u00a0I thought to myself.\u00a0<i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>You won\u2019t be smiling for long.\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Hours later, as the clock struck midnight, I heard an engine roaring outside my window. As I was about to go check if it was Brandon, his text lit up my phone.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'><i class='\"ContentRenderer_italic__eQgX6\"'>I\u2019m here,\u00a0he wrote.\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/0Ss6l7qvIlCQPUmSrkHgwuWewT3Jva7xfXJCTwH2Jqw\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vODA1NWUxZTA2ZGFmOWQ4ODExMDk0ODY4OGYzMTA3MTNmN2ZkNmYzZGQ0OWJlOTEzYzI3YjMwYTFmOTM5YmYxZS5qcGc_d2lkdGg9MTkyMCZoZWlnaHQ9MTI4MA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/8055e1e06daf9d88110948688f310713f7fd6f3dd49be913c27b30a1f939bf1e.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman reading a text source: pexels width='\"1920\"' height='\"1280\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A woman reading a text\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I threw on a jacket and stepped out to meet him. Brandon was standing next to an excavator, his arms crossed and a look of disbelief on his face.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cEvelyn,\u201d he began, pointing at the pile of trash. \u201cWhat is all this?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cThis,\u201d I said, gesturing dramatically at the mess, \u201cis why I called you.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Brandon\u2019s eyebrows shot up. \u201cOkay, I\u2019m almost afraid to ask, but what exactly are we doing here?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWe\u2019re going to use that excavator to pick up this trash and drop it on Andy\u2019s house.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/F02bBsEmOLN21sFEtXwc2UuLJjF3KEeJNQxwDE7yLx8\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMzEwMWYzNDhmNGY3NjkyMDU4YjI4MTc2MmRhZWVkODhlMjUxZTJmNDE0NmNiMjVhOWRhMGMxMjk5YjA3NzM5Mi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/3101f348f4f7692058b281762daeed88e251e2f4146cb25a9da0c1299b077392.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman standing outside her house at night source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A woman standing outside her house at night\n\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>His jaw dropped. \u201cYou\u2019re joking.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cDo I look like I\u2019m joking?\u201d I asked, squinting my eyes.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Brandon hesitated, glancing nervously at the trash pile and then at me. \u201cEvelyn, are you sure about this? What if we get caught? I don\u2019t want to end up in handcuffs because you\u2019re waging war on your neighbor.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I patted his shoulder reassuringly. \u201cRelax. I\u2019ve got everything under control. Andy started this, and I have proof. My CCTV camera caught him dumping all this trash in my yard. If he tries to call the cops, it\u2019ll backfire on him.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/6BGSpJ8v2OvX_XTvQN34Fd3JGqg6CAxMLcm1Prxt_eQ\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vMjBiNTg3Y2RiYjNkZDFkZWZkZDVmOWMwNzIzMWJjZDA1NDYzOGE0MTE3MjNlZjFkNzhkYjM1ZTk3NWJhZjFiNi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/20b587cdbb3dd1defdd5f9c07231bcd054638a411723ef1d78db35e975baf1b6.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman looking at something outside her house source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A woman looking at something outside her house\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Brandon sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. \u201cYou\u2019re crazy, you know that?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMaybe,\u201d I said with a shrug. \u201cBut you\u2019re still going to help me, right?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He groaned. \u201cFine. But if this goes sideways, I\u2019m blaming you.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>With that, we got to work. Brandon fired up the excavator, and I guided him as he scooped up the trash pile, one heap at a time.\n\n</p><div>\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>The sound of the machine echoed through the quiet street as Brandon maneuvered it with surprising precision, dumping the garbage right onto Andy\u2019s roof and yard. Some of it even slid down his chimney.\n\n</p><div>\n\n<div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/0MLRICvPwuuyDz1PZD78z2mzZjO-sx9OPw66DjEFx4Q\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTAxY2RiNWE1NDlmNmU5M2FkYzI4MDRiMzIwYTdlYjg0YjAwNWM4MDY2Nzg1M2MxYTVjNjU2OTgwOGQ3ZTc3Mi5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/a01cdb5a549f6e93adc2804b320a7eb84b005c80667853c1a5c6569808d7e772.png%5C%22" alt='\"Trash' outside a house at night source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>Trash outside a house at night\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>It didn\u2019t take long for the commotion to wake Andy. His front door flew open, and he came storming out.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cWhat the heck are you doing?!\u201d he screamed, pointing at the excavator. \u201cAre you out of your mind?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I crossed my arms, standing my ground. \u201cJust returning the favor, Andy. How does it feel to have trash dumped on your property?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Andy\u2019s face twisted in anger. \u201cYou can\u2019t do this! I\u2019ll call the cops!\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/2aUU5Gti55rALcbiAppVh4kXia6ygpJHDDIKNq7JHAw\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vYTY5ZWIyNzJmYjZmNjFiYzdiMjIwMmEwM2U5NGI4MGYzOTI4NDhjYTYxZGNmYTJmYjk2NjliMDkzNmRiN2FlMC5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/a69eb272fb6f61bc7b2202a03e94b80f392848ca61dcfa2fb9669b0936db7ae0.png%5C%22" alt='\"An' angry man source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>An angry man\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cGo ahead,\u201d I chuckled. \u201cBut just so you know, I have security footage of you dumping all this garbage in my yard first. You really want to explain that to the cops?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>He stared at me for a few seconds as he realized he was trapped.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cYou\u2019re insane!\u201d he finally shouted.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cMaybe,\u201d I said with a smirk. \u201cBut at least I know how to use a trash can.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Andy threw his hands up in defeat and stomped back into his house, slamming the door behind him.\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g' image_wrapper-vertical__pwzar>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/-uKSNK8U6WMQHSqtuWi3jdjkoUtDm18Th7WDVnuaGfI\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNmQxNmQ1NjRkNmRhMjgxZWNjYmRjMjg0YWIyMjdjMjVkYTIwNDg0YjU4YTkxODJhNWYyMjY4YzYwMTdhOTU2NS5qcGc_d2lkdGg9MTkyMCZoZWlnaHQ9Mjg4MA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/6d16d564d6da281eccbdc284ab227c25da20484b58a9182a5f2268c6017a9565.jpg%5C%22" alt='\"A' house entrance at night source: pexels width='\"1920\"' height='\"2880\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A house entrance at night\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Then, Brandon turned off the excavator and looked at me, still wide-eyed.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cEvelyn, I thought for sure we were going to jail when he came out. But you\u2026 you\u2019re a genius! You handled that like a pro.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>I laughed, feeling a mix of relief and triumph. \u201cThanks, Brandon. You\u2019re a lifesaver.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cAnytime,\u201d he said, shaking his head with a grin. \u201cBut next time you need my help, maybe let\u2019s stick to something less\u2026 illegal-adjacent?\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"adv\"'>\n\n<div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>\u201cDeal,\u201d I said with a chuckle. \u201cAnd don\u2019t worry. Something tells me Andy won\u2019t be messing with me again.\u201d\n\n</p><div>\n<div class='\"Image_wrapper__1NP9g\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_container__oHMMQ\"'>\n<div class='\"Image_ref__XcBnw\"'><picture><source srcset='\"https:\/\/imgproxy.thecelebritist.com\/pmyAA6MLouKMqeYnUlC0A4z0BVqTPV3ALfDKXe_Z4Io\/rs:fill:375:0:1\/g:no\/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vZDg4M2MxZGY4MjE2MzJhNzIyYmI3ZTQzMjA4NDEyZTUxMTJiNGU4MmNhZWNjZGE4NmZmZGYzOWExYWYwYWFkYS5wbmc_d2lkdGg9MTAyNCZoZWlnaHQ9MTAyNA.jpg' type='\"image\/jpeg\"' sizes='\"(max-width:'></source><img loading='\"lazy\"' decoding='\"async\"' class='\"Image_image__11E9V' image_post-image__qntn0 src="%5C%22https:%5C/%5C/cdn.thecelebritist.com%5C/d883c1df821632a722bb7e43208412e5112b4e82caeccda86ffdf39a1af0aada.png%5C%22" alt='\"A' woman standing outside at night source: midjourney width='\"1024\"' height='\"1024\"'>\n\n<p class='\"Image_title__T6_we\"' data-testid='\"image-source\"'>A woman standing outside at night\n\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>As I headed back inside, I couldn\u2019t help but feel a little proud.\n\n</p><div>\n<p class='\"ContentRenderer_paragraph__B2z36\"'>Andy had tried to intimidate me, but I\u2019d shown him exactly what happens when you mess with the wrong neighbor. And thanks to friends like Brandon, I\u2019d handled it in a way he\u2019d never forget.\n\n</p><div>\n</div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></i></p></div></div></div></div></i></i></p></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></i></p></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></i></i></p></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></picture></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></header>