Being Neighborly
Harold seemed genuinely taken aback, pausing briefly before responding, “Oh, Edith, it’s just that Sherie is a single mother with two young kids. I thought I’d lend her a hand, especially during the winter. You know, just being a good neighbor.” Edith wanted to trust his words, but a lingering doubt gnawed at her. Reluctantly, she chose to let it go for now, unwilling to stir up unnecessary conflict. Unbeknownst to her, this was only the first flicker of her growing suspicions.
Something Not Right
As days went by, Edith couldn’t ignore the growing sense that something was off. She began to notice whispered exchanges between Harold and Sherie, their glances lingering just a moment too long. The once serene and welcoming neighborhood now felt charged with unspoken secrets and unease. Harold and Sherie seemed to be in constant, hushed conversation, adding to the tension that hung heavily in the air.