It was cold and drafty and frankly, I’d already made up my mind to say no. It wouldn’t be fair of me to expect Della to camp inside a house all winter because we’d literally have to pitch a tent inside to ward off the breeze and bird shit.
But that was until the owner caught us coming down the impressive winding stairs and said, “There is, of course, an annex next door where I’ve been living for the past couple of years. It’s got two bedrooms, warm and dry, which is where you can stay. I’m moving in with my daughter and just want to get this place sold but can’t afford a builder to do what’s needed.”
“So you thought you’d rent it out, get money, all while your tenant fixes it up for you?” Della asked sharply. Her patience hadn’t been the best, and I couldn’t blame her with feeling the way she did.
The old woman narrowed her eyes, her spectacles perched on the end of a hooked nose. “It’s a nice house. I was told people do this type of arrangement all the time.”
I jumped in before Della could piss her off. “Look, thank you for your time, Mrs Collins, but I think—”
The woman held up her hand. “You seem strong, and I don’t know about you, but winter can get awfully boring without a hobby or two.” She crossed her arms. “Tell you what. You can live here all winter for free, and we’ll work out what you owe me in rent once I know what sort of renovations you’re willing to tackle. Fair?”
I hadn’t let Della know how tight funds had become. What with her doctor’s bills and the Bed and Breakfast, we barely had enough to cover one month’s rent, let alone four or five.
At least, I could earn the roof over our heads. I could do enough work that ensured my labour ought to cover our stay. The place was far enough from the city limits not to be disturbed, and there was somewhere warm to go to at night.
“Can you give us a moment?” I smiled politely at Mrs Collins.
“Of course.” She turned toward the large engraved front door. “Take your time.”
“Della?” Cupping her elbow, I pulled her into the large lounge, coughing at the dust swirling from the floor. The moment we were out of earshot, I told her the truth. “Money is running out. This might be our best hope at avoiding another winter with some coin left over to buy food.”
“But, Ren. Have you seen the amount of work required?”
“I know. It’s a lot but—”
“Do you really want to be working all winter?”
I laughed, running my thumb over her cheekbone, so damn happy there was some colour there for a change. We’d had another doctor’s appointment, and he said her levels were dropping, which was a good sign. He still insisted she should be in bed, and the fact that she’d argued until I’d brought her with me to see this house had added a bit of friction, but it wouldn’t be just me living here. She had every right to weigh in on the decision.
“Not sure if you remember, but I was happy working on Polcart Farm. Tinkering kept my mind off the short days and cold nights. I think this would be good for me.”
“Would you let me help?” She smiled, kissing my hand as it cascaded from her cheek.
“Of course. I’d adore your help.”
“Even up ladders and things?”
I frowned. “Within reason.”
“Fine. You do the hard yards, and I’ll paint and plaster and wallpaper and do whatever else you’ll deem safe enough for me.”
“So…you’re okay living here?”
“As long as there is somewhere with a working toilet and a warm bed, then yes.” She nodded. “Be kind of cool, actually.”
“Should we go tell Mrs Collins?”
Della clutched my hand and stood on her tiptoes, pressing her mouth to mine. A faint line of sweat appeared on her upper lip, revealing she needed to be back in bed and resting. “Make sure we can move in tomorrow. I’m sick of you not sleeping in that Bed and Breakfast.”
I chuckled, kissing her back. “Deal.”
* * * * *
We moved in the next day after Della’s doctor’s appointment. Her hCG levels had once again dropped, and Doctor Strand finally looked more relaxed than tense around her. The cramps in her stomach weren’t as bad, and the minor bleeding had stopped along with her vomiting.
The relief at seeing the cheeky spirit in her eyes and the sheer gratefulness at her quick kisses and sarcastic comments made my heart glow with happiness.
I didn’t even care we wouldn’t be returning to the forest.
Della was okay, and I wouldn’t ask for more than that.
While we wouldn’t be heading back into the trees we’d called home for so long, I did travel back to our campsite and collected our backpacks and belongings.