Page 151 of The Gaybor War

Benji shoots me a quick look—pleased, and just a little undone—before turning his attention back to Trevor with a dazzling smile.

"I’m Benji. Neighborhood Watch captain, unofficial HOA translator, and professional Morningwood gossip coordinator."

Trevor beams. "Nice to meet you."

His gaze lingers a half-second too long. Benji stiffens. Not much, just a subtle shift, but I feel it.

"And I’m Carter," I add smoothly. "Benji’s live-in reality check."

Benji scoffs. "That is a blatant lie. I am pure intuition and instinct."

"Which is why you once tried to microwave a Pop-Tart in its foil wrapper."

"It was late. I was tired. Science is confusing."

Trevor laughs again, eyes crinkling. "You two are… entertaining."

"That’s one word for it," Eunice says briskly. "Now, Trevor, I was explaining our holiday decorating guidelines⁠—"

Benji groans softly. "Here we go."

"—and as you can see," Eunice continues, flipping her clipboard, "there are very clear parameters around inflatable displays."

Trevor blinks. "There are… rules about excessive inflation?"

Benji stills.

It’s subtle. Just a fraction of a pause. But I know him well enough now to feel the moment his brain catches on something sharp and familiar.

Benji’s eyes take on an unholy glint. "Yep. Very specific rules."

Trevor grimaces. "That one got away from me."

Benji shoots me a look. I frown back. Got away from me?

I nudge Benji with my elbow. "Behave."

Trevor glances between us, clearly amused. "You guys seem solid."

Benji’s jealousy flickers, then fades into something quieter.

"We are," I say simply.

This time, Benji doesn’t tease. He just leans closer, shoulder brushing mine.

Eunice claps her hands. "Excellent. I’ll let you all get acquainted. But remember—no more than six inflatables per yard. Incurring a violation in your first week is no way to welcome you to the neighborhood."

She strides off, clipboard raised like a banner of authority.

There’s a beat of silence.

Then Trevor exhales. "Would it surprise you to know she’s always been this way?"

"No," Benji says. "But I am surprised you used the phrase excessive inflation."

Trevor blinks. "Did I?"

I can tell Benji isn’t buying his act.