Just as I was about to step out of the car, I noticed a middle-aged man standing on the porch of the neighbouring house. He was dressed in a faded dressing gown, and his hair was mussed from sleep. He waved me over, his eyes wide with concern.
I reluctantly got out of the car, adjusting my hat as I made my way towards him. The man hurried over, his slippers slapping against the pavement.
"Thank goodness you're here, officer," he exclaimed, his voice breathless. "I've been trying to get some sleep for hours, but that racket has been going on nonstop. I've called the police three times already, but no one's shown up."
I nodded sympathetically, trying to muster up some enthusiasm for the long night ahead. But it was no use. I'd just started my shift, and I was already feeling like I was in for a long, grueling night.
"What's the situation, sir?" I asked, my voice firm but detached.
The neighbour gestured towards the house, his eyes wide with exasperation. "It's those kids, officer. They're always throwing parties and disrupting the neighbourhood. Their parents must be away or something. And I know they're smoking drugs. One of them tossed a butt into my garden." He produced the butt wrapped in cling film. "I don't know how much more of this I can take."
I nodded, my gaze drifting towards the house. I could see the shadows of people dancing inside, the music pulsating like a living thing. I let out a deep sigh, mentally preparing myself for the chaos that was about to ensue.
"Okay, sir. I'll take care of it. You go back inside and try to get some rest."
The neighbor nodded, looking relieved. "Thank you, officer. I appreciate it."
I watched as he scurried back to his house, feeling a sense of frustration wash over me. This was going to be a long night.