I pressed the button.
The filtration system stopped.
Then the automatic pool cover began moving.
People started shouting.
Children were called out of the water.
The music stopped.
Someone asked what was happening.
Karen rushed toward me.
"You can't do this!"
I looked at her calmly.
"I can."
"This is a community event!"
"No. It's a private-property event you created without permission."
She threatened to call the HOA.
I told her to do it.
She threatened to call the police.
I told her that would be fine too.
For the first time that afternoon, Karen looked uncertain.
Then I showed her the documentation proving the pool and backyard were entirely private.
Her face changed.
But she still wasn't ready to admit defeat.
Chapter 6 — The HOA Meeting
Three days later, the HOA called an emergency meeting.
Karen arrived with a folder.
I arrived with mine.