THE POOL AT LOT TWENTY-FOUR
Chapter I: The Accusation by the Water
The sweltering afternoon sun reflected off the crystal-clear waters of the in-ground swimming pool behind a quiet brick home in Palm Ridge.
Marching aggressively along the poolside concrete, dressed in a tailored sage-green suit, stilettos, and clutching a silver clipboard, was Victoria Sterling. As the tyrannical president of the Palm Ridge HOA, Victoria was infamous for demanding instant obedience from every resident on the block.
Towering behind her were two municipal police officers—Officer Vance and Officer Rodriguez.
Victoria thrust an aggressive, manicured finger toward the homeowner standing beside the patio lounge chairs.
"Officers, arrest her!" Victoria shrieked, her voice echoing off the brick facade.
Standing composed by the water was Maya, an accomplished architect wearing a purple silk button-down shirt, dark trousers, and tortoiseshell glasses. Maya held a thick purple three-ring binder securely against her chest, her expression completely calm despite the hostile intrusion.