Jonathan turned back to Ethan and placed a hand gently on his shoulder.
“I’m really sorry this happened. I promise you I’m going to look into it.”
His tone was calm, but his eyes said something else.
As if he already knew where to start.
***
Jonathan stood up and walked back toward Melinda’s driveway.
I stayed near the fence, close enough to hear.
“I’m really sorry this happened.”
“Hi, Melinda,” Jonathan said. “I know what you’d like us to talk about, but I find it curious that you happen to be the only person complaining about these dogs.”
Melinda straightened, forcing a fake smile. “I’ve had concerns, yes,” she said quickly. “But I’ve already accepted the situation.”
Jonathan didn’t react.
“You filed three complaints about this family helping these dogs, and now suddenly their fence is trashed, and the shelter is vandalized.”
“I’ve had concerns, yes.”
Melinda let out a small laugh. “That’s not my responsibility. Anyone could’ve done that.”
Jonathan held my neighbor’s gaze for a moment. Then nodded slightly. “Of course, without proof, we can’t assume anything.”
Melinda relaxed a little at that. “Would you like to come inside?” she offered quickly. “We can go over the renovation plans.”
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