When 14-year-old Ben walked in looking defeated, I knew something was wrong. He’d just finished washing Mr. Peterson’s car—for the fourth time this month—but instead of getting paid, the smug neighbor told him it “wasn’t spotless” and refused to pay the agreed $200.

Ben was crushed. He’d put hours of effort into making that Jeep gleam, only to be dismissed like his work meant nothing. Furious, I handed him the $200 myself. “You earned this,” I said. “And don’t worry—I’ll handle Mr. Peterson.”

The next morning, I confronted him. At first, he brushed it off, saying Ben needed a “lesson in humility.” But when I mentioned the photos Ben had taken of each car wash and hinted at legal action, his confidence cracked. He paid up—fast.

Back home, I gave Ben the money. “No one cheats my son,” I said.

Later, over burgers, Ben spotted a “Help Wanted” sign at an ice cream parlor. “Think I should apply?” he asked.Go for it,” I smiled. “But if the boss tries anything shady—you know who to call.”