That same afternoon, Peter waited anxiously for Jean's tap on the door. With so many online options nowadays, her deliveries were not so necessary. But she insisted she didn't mind, and he was glad for the convenience and a chance for a face-to-face exchange with someone.

At the beginning, when he no longer felt comfortable going out, it was a lifeline for him. He was surprised when she first offered as she hadn't been a particularly friendly neighbor, but he readily accepted her help. Often, they didn't chat for long, but today he wanted to hear everything she knew about Connie.

"Hey Pete, it's me."

He quickly grabbed his mask and covered his face.

Jean signed, "I'll say it again. Haven't said for a while. You know you don't have to do that for me," She wheeled the shopping cart into the large open room, began unloading the items onto a table set up for that purpose, and slapped down some money.

"Keep it, Jean. You do so much for me."

"God, do we have to do this every time." Jean groused. "We have an arrangement. You pay me good for bringing your stuff and always more than I need to buy it."

"Inflation! Cost of living!" He tried to lighten her mood and finished removing his items from the cart.

"Anyway, I want to keep you longer today so you can tell me about our new neighbor. I've seen you talking to her."

Jean warmed a little, "You spying on her?"

Peter looked down, "Only a little."

"What are we gonna to do with you?" Jean shook her head. "Okay, I'll tell what I know. Connie works from home. Does stuff for professors, I think. Not sure. Definitely an educated type. You know me, I'm usually put off by that, but she's nice. I think she's a little lonely. Her stepdad died recently, and she inherited a bit of money, so that's how she bought the house. She told me she reads a lot. Like you."

"That it?"

"She's handy. Made me some wooden spoons and Kami a beautiful dollhouse. Invite her over, you're so curious!"

"I can't, Jean."

"Sorry, Pete. I know. I wish I could help you better. Honest to god, wish I could."

He patted her arm, "You do plenty for me. And I'm fine, really. I'm connected with people all over the world through my work and hobbies. Take long walks at night. And look how fit I am." He raised his arms to make muscles.