The two spent the next hour in a state of high-energy panic. They went from room to room, accusing each other of "energy crimes." Chooty Malli pointed at the old radio that stayed plugged in; Podi Malli pointed at the fan that hummed even when the windows were wide open.
"Maybe your thoughts are too bright," Podi Malli groaned. "And look at the water bill. It’s enough to fill a swimming pool. Are you taking ten baths a day? Or is there a secret waterfall under the house we don’t know about?" The two spent the next hour in a state of high-energy panic
Chooty Malli and Podi Malli stared at each other. The tension evaporated instantly. Chooty Malli lunged for the light switch, flooding the room with a warm glow, while Podi Malli ran to the kitchen to turn on the tap just to hear the beautiful sound of running water. "And look at the water bill
"Both! It’s a double attack!" Podi Malli collapsed into a plastic chair, staring at the numbers on the bills as if they were written in an ancient, cursed language. "Look at the electricity bill. Did we start a factory overnight? Did you leave the iron on for three days? Or did the fridge decide to host a party for all the other appliances in the neighborhood?" Or is there a secret waterfall under the
Chooty Malli froze. The ginger tea turned cold in his hand. "Both? At the same time?"
The neighbor looked at the bills resting on the table. He squinted at them under his flashlight and then started laughing so hard he nearly dropped his light.
Suddenly, a loud knock came at the door. It was their neighbor, holding a flashlight and looking confused. "Why are you guys sitting in the dark?" the neighbor asked.