Spark flashes.
Suddenly → sirens scream. Red/blue lights flood windows.
Dad → freezes. Drops lighter. Panic.
Twist: Smart home security. Audio sensors → triggered silent alarm.
Police breach door. Tasers drawn.
Dad → plays victim. “Misunderstanding! Filling a generator!”
Me → tap phone. Playback.
Smart home audio → *”Surrender your sign-on bonus or I burn this house down.”*
Dad → pale. Sweating. Stammers.
Officer → tackles Dad. Handcuffs click.
Dad → begs. Cries. “Family! Forgive me!”
Neighbors → outside. Filming. Total humiliation.
Fallout & Consequences:
Arrest → Felony extortion. Attempted arson.
Video → goes viral.
Dad’s employer → sees news. Fired immediately.
Bank → calls in debts. Total ruin.
Resolution:
Me → relocated. New state. Blocked contact.
Career → thriving.
Holidays → peaceful. Quiet. Safe.
