I spoke with neighbors, too. Marisol, from across the street, confirmed she saw Derek lurking outside late at night. Rob, next door, overheard him muttering about “view blockers.” With their statements, the photos, and a police report, I was ready. I filed a vandalism report and obtained an estimate for car detailing: $500. I printed everything — photos, receipts, police statements, neighbor affidavits — and wrote a clear, concise letter demanding reimbursement. I slipped it under Derek’s door and emailed the HOA a copy for good measure.
Two days later, a knock came at my door. Derek appeared, jaw tight, cheeks flushed. “This is ridiculous,” he said, but handed me a folded receipt — proof he had paid for the detailing. He returned later that weekend with a bucket, rags, and a quiet apology in his eyes. “I thought maybe I could help clean the rest,” he murmured. I directed him calmly, letting the kids watch from the window. Max and Lily giggled at the absurdity. “The skeleton man is washing our car?” Max whispered. “Yes,” I said. “He made it dirty, and he got caught.”Continue reading…
