It was late in the afternoon in the neighborhood, the scorching heat of the Austin sun almost too much to bear. Joel was watching mindless television, having the house to himself as Sarah was out with some friends. He was ready to just relax for the rest of the day before a knock came at the door. It was his neighbor, asking if they could check out their broken AC.

“It’s a miracle you haven’t melted yet,” Joel laughed, moving to get his supplies. “Not used to the Austin heat, darlin’?”