Safe

Written for https://lifeafter50forwomen.com/my-prompts-1/

Waking up, my blinds brace against the wake up light of the sun. My desolate door squeaks, urging visitors inside my hollow shell. Is it five years since we said our goodbyes? The giggling used to bounce against my walls. It was easier to breathe then.

I glance at the for sale sign, extending its aching limbs.

What is that? A human being; maybe more. The step over the threshold, dust getting into my eves.

‘Needs a lot of work,’ he says.

‘Nothing a bit of love couldn’t achieve its magic on,’ the woman says. ‘Besides, it’s such a beautiful place to bring up our child. Perhaps build a garden. Perhaps an apple tree for her to climb.’

Laughter lines open as I hear the familiar connection.

I lift my wooden beams, stretching in her warmth. What could I do to accomplish this? Ragged curtains flutter against the breeze. She retrieves a tiny stuffed mouse. Holding it to her blossoming stomach. ‘Isn’t this cute? I’m telling you, this our home, and it is within our price range. Close to your mum and dad. Please, we cannot stay with them forever.’

‘Let’s do it!’ he said.

The scarce scent of brilliant recollections dawns on me. Second chances are not just for new builds.