As good as his word, Carl finished painting the main room on Saturday. While he was packing up his gear he said, “If you’re planning on taking up the carpet, wait until Monday when the paint is thoroughly dry. You don’t want dust and dirt stuck to it.”
Wylie had already figured that out, but didn’t want to hurt Carl’s feelings, so he thanked him for the suggestion. “I’m hoping it, or the padding, wasn’t glued down.”
“I’d say that’s unlikely, but if it is, I know a carpet layer who’s good at dealing with that. If you get lucky, you should be able to take it up on your own. Just remember, the tack strip can be lethal to your hands so pry it up carefully.”
“Will do.” Wylie paid him what was still owed, helped him carry his things to the truck, and then went back inside. “Next chore, my boo
