Mrs. Johnson, a newcomer to the neighborhood, had a reputation for being polished and professional. However, her true nature was revealed when she asked 12-year-old Ethan to mow her lawn for $20. After Ethan completed the task, Mrs. Johnson refused to pay him, claiming that the experience was payment enough.
Ethan’s mother was outraged when she learned about Mrs. Johnson’s actions. She decided to teach Mrs. Johnson a lesson by orchestrating a series of events that would embarrass her in front of the neighborhood. With the help of a friend who owned a landscaping business, Mrs. Johnson’s hedges were trimmed into unusual shapes. Additionally, three truckloads of mulch were delivered to her driveway, blocking her car.
As Mrs. Johnson returned home to find her driveway blocked and her hedges trimmed, the neighborhood buzzed with excitement. Mrs. Johnson’s anger was palpable as she confronted Ethan’s mother, who calmly replied that she knew nothing about the landscaping or mulch delivery.
When Mrs. Johnson realized she was being held accountable for her actions, she reluctantly paid Ethan the $20 she owed him. As she handed over the money, Ethan’s mother made it clear that she would not tolerate anyone taking advantage of her son. From that day forward, Mrs. Johnson’s reputation in the neighborhood changed, and she never asked Ethan for help again. The incident served as a reminder that honesty and fairness are essential values that should be respected.
