“Yes, but it’s the same everywhere,” Arthur said. “Decent people are being forced out onto the streets, all because of greed.”
“Would you consider living in a retirement home?”
“We’ll take anything that we can afford.”
Harry pulled the truck into the next parking lot, picked up his phone and dialed a number.
“Hello, Mr. Hogan.”
“Ms Pinsent, do you still have that empty room?” He knew that one of the ladies at Black’s Farm had returned to her hometown and married her widowed high school sweetheart.
“Are you thinking of moving in?” He could hear the laughter in her voice.
Harry laughed. “Not yet, but are you open to having a couple move in, husband and wife?”
“I don’t see why not.”
“We’re on the way. I’ll explain when we get there.” He put the truck in gear and headed for the highway.
“What about the shelter?” Arthur asked.
“Temporary at best,” Harry said. “Are you both getting pensions?” They nodded. “I thought a more permanent solution might be better.”
“We can’t afford both rent and living expenses,” Georgie said.
“This place will give you a bedroom, private bathroom, and free use of the rest of the house. Are you interested?”
“Can’t hurt to check, I suppose,” Arthur said.
When they reached Black’s Farm, Arthur and Georgie gazed in awe at the sight of the elegant, old house. “This won’t work,” Arthur said. “We can’t afford this.”
“Wait and see,” Harry said as Ms Pinsent waved at them from the doorway.
When she had heard their story, Ida was appalled. “It’s not like that here,” she said, and explained how it worked and what their share would be. “The farm generates enough income to cover necessary repairs or upgrades. We all just pitch in and do what we can. What kind of work did you do before retirement?”
“Maitenance – which included a bit of everything. Georgie was an elementary teacher.”
“Great! You can work with Joe.” Ida looked at Georgie. “I’m trying to develop a tour for kids and you will be a great asset with that.”
Arthur and Georgie looked at each other, eyes wide. “So, this is basically a home, shared by retirees, with everyone paying their share and helping each other,” Arthur said. “It’s perfect!”
Georgie shook Ida’s hand. “Bless you.” Then she turned to Harry. “Mr. Hogan, you’re an angel of mercy. We’ll never forget this.”
********************
When Harry returned home, he had some phone calls to make. Philip Martin was happy that things had worked out well.
Max was pleased that his instincts had been correct, but he sounded disappointed there were no aliens. But he was excited when Harry said, “By the way, Martin might need someone local to keep an eye on the place when he’s not around. I suggested you.”
His last call was to Bertie and when he finished telling her the story, she said, “That’s just the kind of person you are, Hogan. And, by the way, lunch was delicious. Thank you.”
