Abandoned

“The history of the house is quite tragic,” Connie admits, the deep crows feet in the corner of her eyes deepening in concentration as she turns to the right, clicking the the blinker off.

I glance over to her, intrigued. “Oh really? Do you know what happened?”

She shrugs. “I only know the original owners abandoned the house after the death of their son.”

I look back to the road, its surface becoming increasingly rough as Connie navigates around several potholes. “How long ago was that?” I ask.

“Ten years,” she says, shaking her head. “I hope you’re up for some serious renovations.”

I smile, excited. “It’s what I prefer. I like putting my own stamp on things.”

Connie’s eyes go wide. “Are you planning on living there? Alone?”

I nod. “Yes, I mean, unless there’s no electricity or water.”

“As far as I know, there is,” she admits. “But I can’t guarantee either are up to code,” she slows down and I look up.

“Oh my God, it’s beautiful!” I whisper, staring up at the majestic house and pull on the latch before the car comes to a complete stop. “It’s huge!”

“It’s huge alright,” Connie smirks, her short, gray hair barely moving in the brisk winter breeze.

I grab my purse and step out, studying the facade, mesmerized by its classic colonial architecture. The paint is chipping all over, the front steps are starting to crumble in spots and a few of the windows are broken but it’s perfect. Absolutely perfect.

“I’ll take it!” I blurt out, looking back at Connie.

“Oh,” she gets out. “Don’t you want to see inside?”

“Of course, but I already know I want it. Did you bring the papers?”

“Yes,” she answers, brows going up in surprise.

“Great, I’ll pay the full asking price. I’d like to start right away.”