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She nodded. "Since my eyesight deteriorated, he has put everything online."
"Is he around?"
"A two-hour drive." She let out a chuckle. "He's busy. I just hope he thinks about paying the electricity bill. It is to be settled today. These companies do not wait for the old ladies to find their glasses. »
"Do you want me to read something?"
It made me think.
"Madame Adèle, if you have the slightest doubt, knock on my door."
"Oh, Carmen." She patted me on the arm. "You have Oliver, the work, the shopping, the bills... I will not be another burden to you. »
Oliver looked up at her. "Mom carries heavy bags all the time."
Madame Adèle smiled. "I know. That is why I will not add any more. »
I should have insisted more.
"I will not be another burden to you."
***
Three nights later, Oliver stopped in the hallway, toothbrush in hand.
"Mom."
"What, baby?"
"The light on Madame Adèle's porch is always off."
I looked out the window. His little house was plunged into darkness. No light on the porch, no lamp in the kitchen.
"She may be going to bed early," I said, but even I couldn't believe it.
"No." Oliver disappeared into his room and returned with his green piggy bank. "She says the porch lights help people find their way back."
"She may go to bed early."
