Chapter 35

Queenie had turned the large balcony into something else. She installed a retractable clothesline and placed a big rocking chair there. With these changes, Joshua suddenly felt like this place was really becoming a home. "Mr. Newman, are you free this weekend? Come with me to buy some plants," Queenie said, pointing to a corner of the balcony. "I've already set up the shelves; now I just need the flowers." Her big, hopeful eyes sparkled as she looked at Joshua, making it impossible for him to say no. "Sure." Seeing him agree, Queenie was thrilled. While Joshua went upstairs to change, the recycling guy showed up. The pile of boxes fetched a little over five dollars, which Queenie happily pocketed. When she returned inside and closed the door, Joshua hesitated momentarily before saying, "You could have just given those boxes to him." "Everyone needs to earn their keep. I'm not a saint and wouldn't be that generous," Queenie replied bluntly. After all, making money meant there w