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

By the end of the second week, our vibrant world began to wither.

By the fourth intervention, Ray’s lawn was indistinguishable from the surrounding ones.

One day, as I was fetching the mail, Marjorie intercepted me.

She gestured towards the yard.

“Looks like that miracle seed of yours lost its magic touch.”

I returned her glance with a grin.

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