Page 28 of Dreaming Without Heartache

Maisie and I walk the property. She skips ahead, trying to peek into the windows, while I check the foundation and siding. The back of the house catches my attention with a big yard leading to a beautiful, wooded area glowing with orange and yellow leaves. The large deck off the back of the house has outdoor furniture that gives the whole space nice entertaining vibes.

“Look!” Maisie says, pointing to a rabbit in the yard. “Think it’s hungry?”

“I’m sure it knows how to get food, honey.”

“I wish I had a carrot to feed it.” Maisie squats down and holds out her hand. “Come here, little bunny.” Her voice is soft. The rabbit in return hops off hurriedly toward the woods.

“It’s just scared, sweetheart.”

“I won’t hurt it.”

“I know. But the rabbit doesn’t know that.” I hear a car pull up behind us. “Let’s get back around front.”

A redheaded woman around my age exits her vehicle. I hesitate. Did Ginger’s aunt promise to show someone else the house too?

“Hi,” the woman says as she approaches. “I’m Lorrie. We spoke on the phone earlier about my aunt’s house. You must be Allie.”

“I am. You’re Ginger’s aunt?” I know my face has confusion written all over it.

Lorrie’s light laughter is pleasant. “I am. We have a big family. Ginger’s mother is my oldest sister. I’m the youngest. Ginger and I are the same age.” Her long red hair is full and wavy. It suits her. “Would you like to go inside?”

“Yes!” Maisie answers for both of us.

“I think we’re ready.” I smile at Lorrie.

Lorrie’s laugh is easy. The kind of laugh that makes you smile without meaning to.

“I’ve had it cleaned recently, but there’s still some furniture here.” Lorrie opens the door to a long foyer. Maisie leads the way.

“I think she may follow in her mother’s footsteps,” Lorrie says, referring to Maisie’s obvious interest in the property. My chest tightens with those words, though Annie would have smiled.

“Maisie’s my niece.”

“Oh, well, she still seems to have a love for this.” Lorrie’s easy presence softens the moment.

We go from room to room, Maisie by my side every step, while Lorrie tells us anything we need to know and more. The house is a little over two thousand square feet, but the open floor plan makes it seem bigger. This will be a great investment for A&S Homes if we can land it.

“Lorrie, the house is a gem.” I wouldn’t normally show my hand so easily, but with someone this kind, it feels right. I want to make it easier for her. It’s a great deal and she’s asking well below its value based on my research.

“Thank you.” She places a hand over her heart. “My aunt loved it here. She began remodeling it as soon as they moved in.”

“She did a very good job.” I take one last look around. “I’d like to buy it. Let me talk with my partner and I’ll get back with you soon. I’m willing to pay the asking price Ginger mentioned if you keep it off the market.”

Tears spring to Lorrie’s eyes, catching me off guard. “Absolutely. Please reach out to me after you two speak. I can’t thank you enough.” A sense of relief seems to wash over her.

“This is a great house.” I reach out to shake her hand, but she pulls me into a tight hug instead.

“Thank you,” she says, voice breaking. “This means so much.”

When we pull apart, Maisie and I return to the car. Kara looks bored out of her mind.

“I love this house, Aunt Allie! Don’t you?” Maisie’s hopeful energy is just what I need.

“You think it would sell quickly?”

“Oh my gosh, yes!” Her excitement radiates. “The layout is so good. There isn’t much to remodel. I’d move right in.”

My heart swells with pride knowing she pays attention to what I do and say. “I agree, baby girl. You have a good eye.”