“Did you check the outside of the basement wall while you were working?” I asked.

“I did,” Thomas said, setting his toolbox down on the grass.

“The steel ventilation cover is solid.

The concrete seal around the foundation is fully intact.”

“Thank you, Thomas,” I said.

“It looks good and sturdy.”

“It’s built to last,” Thomas said, wiping his forehead with his sleeve.

“It’s good to see this house looking clean and bright again.