Sheila thought about it for a moment.

The rent savings alone would be enough, she thought

. “I think we might try it on a trial basis,” she said.

“We’ll do it as long as you would like, Sheila

. If it doesn’t work out, just tell me.

I’m grateful that you are willing.

We can start tonight if you’d like.”

“Fine. It’s time for me to leave for the day anyway.”

Sheila followed Mrs. Jamieson home.

When they opened the door to the house,

Michael was nowhere to be seen.

Penelope headed for her bedroom to change and there was Michael, just closing her jewelry box,

with a ten-dollar bill in his hand.

“Just what do you think you are doing young man?”

“What’s the big idea of taking money from my room just like a common thief?

I’ve been too easy on you.

Ms Ames tells me you’ve been acting up in school too.”

Michael looked up to the bedroom door and realized that his principal had walked in.

“I’m sorry, mom.

I was gonna tell you.”

“You are not as sorry as your going to be, young man.”