Homer Simpson was in high spirits. A fishing trip with Lenny, Carl, and Barney was on the horizon, an excuse to escape the mundane routine of daily life. Before his departure, he gave Marge a fleeting peck on the cheek and, with a holler of joy, sped off in his classic pink sedan, leaving a trail of dust behind him.

Marge waved him off with a forced smile. As his car became a speck in the distance, she felt a strange mix of relief and anxiety. The house seemed quieter without Homer's constant grumbles and belches, and his absence hard to ignore.

Later in the day, as she tried to distract herself with household chores, she found that the kitchen faucet was dripping. She knew the toolbox was on the topmost shelf in the garage, a place she couldn't reach without Homer. She sighed, deciding to brave the task of retrieving the toolbox with their wonky step stool.

Meanwhile, Ned, having finished his daily devotions, was out for a walk. As he strolled past the Simpson's residence, he saw Marge struggling to reach the toolbox in the garage. Her evident distress made Nedapproach her and offer his assistance.

Marge looked down from the wobbly stool, relief washing over her face. "Oh, Ned, you're a sight for sore eyes! I was just about to give up and let our kitchen faucet sing its song."

Ned chuckled, extending his arms to steady the stool. "Well, we can't have that now, can we? Let me help you down, and I'll tackle that drippy old faucet myself!"

As Marge rummaged the top shelf for the box, Ned found himself stealing a glimpse at her figure. A fleeting memory from that day crossed his mind. He quickly brushed the thought aside, focusing on why he had stopped at the Simpsons residence. To help a fellow Christian in need. He was, after all, just being a good neighbor. A good neighbor. A neighbor that could vividly picture the arch of Marge's naked back through her signature strapless green dress.

Marge carefully descended, handing over the toolbox with a grateful smile. "Thank you, Ned. You really are a lifesaver. I don't know what I would've done without you."

Ned blushed, his cheeks turning a faint shade of red. "Aw, it's nothin', really. Just happy to be of service."

As Ned expertly fixed the faucet, Marge observed, "You know, you're a real handyman, Ned. If you ever consider a career change, you could easily become Springfield's most sought-after plumber."

Ned grinned sheepishly, tightening a loose screw. "Why, that's mighty kind of you to say, Mrs. Simpson. But I reckon I'll stick to my own humble abode for now."

A moment of awkward silence passed between them as Ned finished his work, and Marge fiddled with the toolbox, not quite sure how to express her gratitude further.

Ned, ever the icebreaker, chimed in, "So, uh, Homer's off fishin', huh? Enjoyin' some quality time with the boys?"

Marge nodded. "Yes, he left this morning. They're going on a fishing trip for a few days. Bart wanted to go too, but I told him he had to stay home and practice his saxophone."

Ned was confused, his eyebrow arching even though Marge couldn't see the expression from under the sink. "Bart has also taken to the school band like his sister?"

Marge's eyes widened, and then she laughed nervously. "Oh, my stars! You're right. I'm getting my children's hobbies mixed up. It's just one of those days."

Ned smiled warmly while popping his head from under the sink and grabbing a drying cloth. "Well, I hope Homer and the boys catch a big one! You know, sometimes all a man needs is some fishin', good company, and perhaps a few donuts to keep 'im content."

Marge raised an eyebrow playfully. "Oh, you think so? Maybe I should go on a fishing trip with my friends too. But instead of fish, we'll catch up on the latest gossip!"

Ned's eyes twinkled with sympathy. "Why not? You deserve some time for yourself too, Mrs. Simpson. It's important to take care of yourself and recharge those batteries. Even if that means chattin' about the latest happenings over a cup of tea."

They both shared a warm laugh, enjoying the comfortable atmosphere that had replaced the earlier clumsiness. The conversation flowed effortlessly, and Marge couldn't help but feel at ease around Ned.

After a few more minutes of friendly banter, Ned looked at his watch. "Well, I should be gettin' back home now. Gotta tend to my boys and make sure they're not causin' too much mischief or watchin' those, oh, 'racy' cable channels."

Marge chuckled. "Of course, Ned. Thanks again for fixing the faucet. I would've been at lost without you."

Ned beamed with pride. "Why, thank ya, Mrs. Simpson. It's always a pleasure helpin' out a neighbor in need. You know where to find me if you need anything else, neighborino!"

With a friendly wave, Ned made his way back to his house, leaving Marge with a warm feeling in her heart. As she went about her day, the house felt a little less empty, knowing that there was someone just next door willing to lend a hand when needed. She found herself drawn to Ned's sincerity and commitment, qualities she sometimes missed in her own husband.