"The board has discretion."
"Not unlimited discretion."
Evelyn folded her arms.
Claire continued, "Especially when enforcement actions affect someone's property."
Daniel found the association's enforcement policy.
Claire read it slowly.
Then she pointed to one sentence.
"Every enforcement action requires verification of the vehicle and property."
Daniel looked at Evelyn.
"Did anyone verify this one?"
Evelyn didn't answer.
That silence said more than a denial could have.
Chapter 4 — The Contractor Talks
The contractor's name was Luis Ortega.
At first, Luis wanted no part of the dispute.
But when Claire asked whether he had received questionable orders before, he finally spoke.
"Sometimes the plate numbers don't match."
Evelyn turned sharply.
"Luis."
He stopped.
Claire raised a hand.
"Let him finish."
Luis swallowed.
"We're told to install the boot when the work order is approved. We don't decide whether the violation is valid."