s the first light of dawn crept over the horizon, Vernon and his team quietly returned to the street in front of the house. The stink bugs had done their work; a faint, lingering stench wafted through the air, evidence of the chaos inside. Vernon felt a mixture of anticipation and satisfaction, knowing his plan hadn’t broken any laws but would certainly send a clear message.
From a safe distance, they observed the squatters as the day began. The couple groggily emerged from the house, eyes watering and swatting at the tiny intruders crawling over them. The man cursed and stumbled backward, while the woman shrieked, waving her arms frantically. Their previously confident demeanor had vanished, replaced by panic and confusion.
Vernon, watching the scene unfold, allowed himself a small, victorious smile. He had created enough discomfort to disrupt their illusion of ownership, without causing harm or breaking the law. He knew the law would soon favor him if they were forced to leave voluntarily or give up their fraudulent claim.
As the squatters scrambled and the stink bugs continued to wreak havoc inside, neighbors began to notice the commotion. A few shook their heads in disapproval at the couple, while others called local authorities to report the chaotic scene. Vernon stayed back, ensuring the situation remained contained and nonviolent, ready to provide evidence if the authorities arrived.
By mid-morning, the squatters, overwhelmed and humiliated, finally stormed out of the house, cursing and swearing. Vernon’s heart lifted as they disappeared down the street, leaving the house empty for the first time in months. He stepped forward, cautiously entering his home, surveying the damage but also feeling the first real sense of relief since his return.
Vernon had reclaimed his home without a fight, using creativity, patience, and his disciplined approach to achieve what brute force could not. For the first time since his return, a genuine sense of peace settled over him, a quiet satisfaction that justice—his way—had been served.