“What about adverse use?”
“Not based on what you’ve told me.”
“Prescriptive access?”
“Again, not based on what you’ve told me.”
Victoria leaned back.
“The community needs connectivity.”
“That is a planning argument, not a property right.”
She disliked the distinction.
“What if the wall violates visual standards?”
“The ranch isn’t inside the association.”
She stared.
The attorney added:
“If his permit is valid and the structure is inside his property line, our authority is limited.”
Victoria left irritated.
But not convinced.
That evening, she used the shortcut again.
Garrett watched from the barn.
The masonry construction had narrowed the entrance, but the old gate opening remained temporarily accessible for deliveries.
Victoria drove through slowly.
Almost deliberately.
Her SUV left fresh tracks in damp soil.
Garrett stood beside the barn holding a wrench.
She looked directly at him as she passed.
Neither waved.
He did not block her.
Did not chase the vehicle.
Did not call.
He simply watched.
Then returned to work.
By Friday, neighborhood conversation had become divided.
One group believed Garrett was overreacting.
Another believed Victoria had created the entire conflict.
A third group simply enjoyed the drama.
Screenshots circulated.
Someone posted:
Why not just give residents gate codes?
Another replied:
Because it isn’t our road.
Someone else wrote:
HOA dues should not be used fighting a ranch that isn’t in the HOA.