Finally — finally — Ted Garcia won the re-election.

After weeks of debates, town halls, and way too many lukewarm handshakes, it was official: the people of Eddington still wanted him. Not that Ted ever doubted it. Of course he was going to win. He knew what he was doing. He ran the town like a business, kept things in order, smiled just enough but never too much, and above all — he listened. At least when it counted.

Still, there was something sweet about seeing it in writing. About hearing the announcement echo off the town square, followed by a chorus of cheers and a very emotional high-five from his assistant.

This called for a celebration.

A proper one.

Lakeside. Early summer breeze. Big tents, folding chairs, red-white-and-blue banners, the works.

There was a full buffet table lined with Ted’s favorite finger foods, three coolers full of drinks (not counting the secret stash of top-shelf stuff for “senior staff”), and a bounce house for the kids. The local band played covers of ‘80s hits, and someone’s uncle grilled burgers like it was his sole purpose in life.

Everything was great.