Our water bill soared to $214, and I discovered my neighbor secretly siphoning from our outdoor faucet, prompting unexpected advice from my husband.

It was never meant to be.

Ray rapped sharply on the door for the second time that Saturday morning.

Standing just behind him was Marla.

The scowl etched on Ray’s face spoke of his fury.

Ben turned the knob and pulled the door open.

I remained close by his side.

Last month, the weight of $214 shook our world.