You’ve described the locale and the protagonist quite well, but I don’t see how this addresses the challenge that the story was entered into. The feeling that I have is that the sequel to this is likely what should have been entered. What am I missing? Nitpicks: In the 2nd sentence, “provided everyone font of good will” is nongrammatical. Also, “runaway” is a noun, “run away” is the verb phrase. I tripped on “so named because he was BUilt FORD Tough”: to me it isn’t clear why you included it. You needed to refer to his reputation, but you’ve described that as protective and helpful, not as tough.

This is a good set-up. But August Rode is correct: I’m not sure how this answers to the challenge. I will await the sequel. Although, Buford is a bit un-ordinary for the suburbs.

I was under the impression that I was making the common special and where I live, someone who helps others for no reason is special (sad to say but true). If this story isn’t eligible, that is okay. I’m still proud of it. If either of you could make the spirit of the challenge clearer (perhaps in the comment section of the challenge), I may try to enter again. Cheers!

@ August- I appreciate the nitpicks and the questions, your critical eye will help forge me into a better writer.

@Horrorfan- I am honored to blaze the trail- even if it is for what not to do.

There are a couple of ways that I might approach this. One way would be to have a situation where my imagination runs away on me: perhaps a walk in an old forest on a moonlit, windy night. Another way might be to overlay a strong but discordant emotional state over the events that are described: how might grief affect your perception of an otherwise beautiful day? Or joy affect a dismal day?

I like this a lot, especially your description of the neighborhood in the first paragraph. I’m definitely intrigued.

write a sequel please. Let me know when you do.