"I need you to open this gate immediately," Patricia demanded, not bothering with an introduction. She pointed her index finger at the wooden slats as if trying to command them to part with sheer willpower.
Marcus walked over slowly, his expression a mask of absolute calm. "Excuse me? Can I help you with something?"
"I am conducting an official HOA compliance inspection," Patricia snapped, her voice carrying a shrill edge. "Your fence is obscuring the view of your backyard from the street. I have received complaints that your landscaping may not conform to community guidelines. I need to inspect the premises."
Marcus crossed his arms over his chest, looking down at the woman. "There are no complaints, Patricia, because no one can see my yard. That’s the entire point of the fence. You are not coming onto my private property without an invitation or a warrant."
Patricia’s face flushed an ugly shade of red. She was not used to being told no. She stepped closer, invading his personal space. "How dare you lock that gate," she hissed, pointing her finger directly at his chest. "Open it now, or I'll make you pay for this. I have forced out homeowners more stubborn than you. Don't think you're special."
Marcus didn't flinch. He reached into his pocket, pulled out a heavy brass padlock, and methodically snapped it through the steel latch of the gate. "You cross that gate without permission, Patricia, and you become the problem. If you want, try to get in."