Brenda threw her head back and let out a shrill, mocking laugh. She waved a thick stack of printed HOA covenant bylaws in Marcus’s face.
"HOA rules say I can!" Brenda declared triumphantly. "Section 14-B clearly bans unapproved visible optical recording hardware on primary facades! Since you ignored my thirty-day removal notice, the board has full administrative authority to sever auxiliary network lines until full compliance is met!"
Marcus didn't raise his voice, but his eyes narrowed with lethal intensity.
"That line supports an active federal contract, Brenda. Do not touch it."
"Federal contract? Please!" Brenda scoffed, reaching inside the utility panel with a pair of wire shears. "You're a remote software consultant living in a suburban tract! Your little corporate zoom calls don't override the Whispering Oaks Board of Directors!"
SNIP.
With a single, spiteful snap of the blades, Brenda severed the multi-strand fiber cable. The LED status indicators on the box instantly blinked from solid green to a flashing, critical red.
Chapter III: The Tech’s Alarm
Brenda stepped back, dusting her hands with triumphant arrogance.