Final answer:
Colon believes the woman might react with distrust or apprehension to his offer of help compared to a white man's offer, due to the racial prejudices of the time.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the story Little Things Are Big, Colon might perceive the woman's reaction to his offer differently based on the social dynamics and prejudices of the time. The societal context suggests that a woman might be more distrustful or apprehensive of accepting help from a colored man compared to a white man, due to racial prejudices and stereotypes that were prevalent. Colon's awareness of these societal attitudes could make him believe that his offer of help might not be viewed in the same way as that of a white man's, who would typically be perceived as more trustworthy or benevolent.