When Margaret’s entitled neighbor Brian filled in her beloved pond while she was away, he had no idea of the fierce response he’d provoke. Margaret, a seemingly lonely older woman, devised a plan that turned Brian’s life upside down.

At 74 years old, I’ve seen my fair share of drama, but nothing prepared me for the hullabaloo that unfolded in my backyard.

I’m Margaret, and I’ve lived in this cozy house for two decades. It’s been my slice of heaven, where my kids grew up and my grandkids play. The crown jewel of my property? A beautiful pond dug by my granddad.

Brian moved in next door five years ago and immediately had a bee in his bonnet about my pond. He complained about the frogs and mosquitoes, but I kept my cool.

One day, I went to visit my sister. When I returned, my pond was gone—filled with dirt. Furious, I suspected Brian. My neighbor, Mrs. Johnson, confirmed it. “A crew came by with orders to fill your pond!”

I called my family for help. My granddaughter remembered a bird camera in the oak tree, which had caught Brian directing the crew.

We reported the destruction of a protected habitat to the environmental agency, which fined Brian $50,000. Brian moved away, and his wife, Karen, became a good friend. As we watched the sunset by my restored pond, she said, “I’m glad Brian messed with your pond. I might never have known what a wonderful neighbor I had.”

Life sure has a way of surprising you.