Mom got mad and said, "What do you mean we cannot move into the house. What hers is rightfully ours."
The lawyer gave a smile and said, "There is a letter to Abbie that I am supposed to read with her parents in the room. May I?"
My Dad said, "It won't change anything."
"Dear Abbie," The lawyer started. "I know your wondering why I am giving you a home full of belongs and a cash inheritance. Since I babysat you when you were young I noticed you were not like your family. Well sweet girl its because for years I have watched your parents take everything from you and give it to your older sibling's. You have had everything taken from you. This house, property, money and belongings come with one condition. Your parents get none of it. Your now eighteen and you deserve to start your life off right. My lawyer here has the keys to my 2010 Mercedes which barely fits in the garage. oh and dear that is the only garage door that opens and the money to give to you once you move in. There a brand new cot bed in the kitchen to make due with till you work on the house. Part of the kitchen and part of the bathroom next to it are readied for your use. There is sixty five rooms in the house, the attached garage, pool house, greenhouse, attic and basement are ready for you. I arranged a yard service for the first year as well as paid all the bills for the first year for you. Think of this as a way for you to sell things and learn history which I know you love. Take care of the home and Mr. Reed will help you get everything set up tomorrow. All my love Mrs. Jenson."
My Dad was fuming and screamed, "We get nothing."
"No," Mr. Reed said.
"Abbie you get out of our house now," Mom screeched. "Pack your shit and go."
"Mr. Reed," I asked. "Can i move in now?"
"Yes," He said. "If you get your belongings packed I will take you to the store to get some groceries and we will get you there this afternoon."
I went up to my closet of a room and packed the few belongings I owned. Walking downstairs with my backpack, purse and two suitcases I met Mr. Reed by the front door. My parents looked at me and said, "Good riddance."
When we walked out my mom slammed the door behind me. Mr. Reed took my suitcases and said, "I am sorry Abbie. From what Mrs. Jenson said they are not good people."
"Before you showed up my parents told me that I needed to get a job and give them my paycheck," I said. "Now what?"
He laughed and said, "My wife cleaned the stove, fridge and bathroom for you today. I would suggest getting some groceries until you get settled and by then you will have the money to do whatever shopping you want to do. Do you have a drivers license?"
"Yes I do," I said. "Mom and Dad hate driving so I had to get mine to chauffer them around."
"Well," He said. "Do you plan with the house?"
"Yes," I said, "I may turn it into a bed and breakfast. But all those rooms and no way to openly sell the items I find."
He laughed and said, "I have a friend who buys things in bulk and I have their card. But your young what about Facebook marketplace?"
"I guess once I get the money I will have to get a phone,' I said. "I could also get a laptop to does the house have internet?"
"Yes," He said handing me a envelope. "The whole home is maintained on the outside. Your going to have a lot of work ahead of you. But this is my card and you can call me for any advise. I promised Mrs. Jenson I would watch over you. Ahh Publix. This is your start up money. In the late morning tomorrow I will come by and help you go over everything so your aware of what you have home, money and house wise. But first let's get you some food."
Walking into the store I realized I can buy things I like. Mr. Reed followed me around the store as I grabbed things I wanted. When I had went through the store and went through check out we headed to the house.
The sun was shinning on the house and I said, "I can't believe I used to be scared of this house."
Laughing he said, "You know Mrs. Jenson started those rumors to keep people away. Now prepare yourself when I said packed I mean we can get you to the bathroom and the kitchen and that is it."
We walked into the house and in the kitchen against the table was a camping bed with fresh sheets, pillows as a flower comforter. The only other small walkway was a bathroom. Looking into the bathroom I saw there was a beautiful window. Coming back to Mr. Reed I said, "I can redo the rooms right?"
"You sure can," He said. "It's your house. The only rule is your family cannot live here. Well Abbie I have a lot to do today. You can use the car I made sure it had gas, a tune up and oil change. What are your plans today."
"I am going to go put the food away," I said. "Set up my luggage and maybe drive my car to the Verizon store and get a phone."
He smiled, handed me the keys for the house and car saying, "That sounds like a plan. You will do fine Abbie. Mrs. Jenson was so sure about you taking the house and I believe she made the right choice."
When he left I locked the door behind him and went to the kitchen and put away the groceries. I started to chuckle as he never realized that these groceries I got today was what my parents would feed me in three months time. Sitting on my bed I counted the money in the envelope and realized I had close to five thousand dollars in it. I tucked a thousand in my wallet and took the remaining money and placed it under my pillows.
Lifting my purse I grabbed the keys and went to the garage. Thanking god I was very thin I unlocked and climbed into the car. I would have to make some room so I could get in and out of the car easier. Looking the the center console I saw an envelope that said registration and insurance. Mrs. Jenson did not skip anything. Heading to the Verizon store I passed a Lowes and decided on the way home I would stop and get some totes for anything I decided to keep for the house and maybe a few drawer totes for my clothes. Pulling up the Verizon store I walked in and the sales woman Violet came over and I explained my situation.
"Well Abbie," She said. "I would suggest getting a phone with a bit more memory. You can do a prepaid plan where you can add time monthly or you can have a bill sent to you. But given your circumstances I would suggest pay as you go so your not locked into a contract. Also remember to get a case for your phone as well."
After an hour she set me up with a phone. Before I left I got a car charger and mount so I could be hands free. I went to the car and set everything up before heading to Lowes. When I got there I found two drawer totes and I bought five regular totes to start with. When I was heading home I decided I was starving and stopped in the Chick Fila drive through to get myself dinner. After this I would not spend much more unless it was for the house. Getting home the fun began to set as I unpacked my clothes and sat at a corner of the table that was free to eat. I sent Mr. Reed a text with my phone number and saved his. A while later I received a text from his wife telling me if I needed anything to call her. Setting up the garbage can I had got along with the totes I sat down to eat as I signed up for a YouTube account so I could watch videos that night. When I had my account set up I decided to look at TikTok. I saw so many videos and came across videos of people who clean out houses and decided why not create a account to post videos of what I am unpacking.
Going into the bathroom I ran the water to see if it was hot and it was. Taking a shower I decided to get ready for bed and relax. The bed Mrs. Reed made for me was comfortable and smelled so good I would have to ask her what laundry detergent she used so I can get some when I go to do my laundry. As I dozed off I learned the sounds of the house. When I was to tired to sleep I shut the phone off and placed it on the counter behind me plugging it in. I woke up around three in the morning with the feeling someone was watching me. I know I locked the front door and told myself its just new house nerves. After using the bathroom I went back to sleep until my alarm went off at seven in the morning.
When I woke up the following morning I went into the bathroom and washed my face getting ready for the day. Going into the kitchen I made my bed and cleaned up the room grabbing a garbage bag to hold my dirty laundry in. Sliding that under the bed I made breakfast. I was not a big breakfast eater but I knew I would be working on the house a lot so I made myself a sausage, and cheese bagel. As I ate I got a text message from Mr. Reed saying that him and his wife would be there at eleven thirty.
Washing my plate I put it in the drying rack and went outside. I decided to make my first video for TikTok. I opened the video and said, "Hey all My name is Abbie and guess what I inherited a house. I gave a tour of the property. Then I paused the video to turn the camera I said, "This house is packed to the brim so follow me and see what we are going to do with it. Do not believe me lets look inside."
After I gave a small tour and showed all the boxes. I ended with, "Follow me for all the treasures we are about to uncover."
I posted the video and looked at all the boxes. I closed my eyes and spun. As I finished spinning I placed my hand on the first box I was going to sort. Pulling the box from the pile I dragged it into the kitchen. Opening the box I saw that there was a bunch of kitchen items in it. Vintage dishes and accessories were stuffed in the box. I got excited as I found a bunch of vintage books at the bottom of the box. I took a tote and labeled it kitchen.
Looking at the card Mr. Reed gave me I gave a call to the shop that buys item. The owner Grace answered and we talked for a while. She said she buys lots but will also put things on sale for me for a percentage of the sales. She is a good friend of Mr. Reeds wife and was told about the situation. When I explained that I have a lot she laughed and told me that she has plenty of room to sell for me or buy the lots. She told me to come by with items this afternoon and we can look over what I found.
I grabbed another box opening it was a bunch of men's clothes. Sorting the box I found T-shirts and suits. Remembering something I saw on TV once was to check the pockets because you never know. After I placed the clothes I decided to keep in the laundry bag I put the rest of the clothes in the same box. The next box was more clothes. I pulled my car out of the garage and loaded the full boxes into them for Grace to look over. If Grace did not want any of the items I would then sell them on the market place. I was about to start another box when there was a knock at the door. Looking out the peep hole I saw my brother Matt outside. Sighing I said, "Once moment."
Opening the door I stepped outside. Looking at him I said, "What's up Matt."
"So Mom and Dad said you decided to fuck the family over," He said.
"How so?" I asked.
"You got all this and we get nothing," He said.
"Oh you mean how I never had a birthday with the family," I said. "Or had to watch every year as you opened Christmas gifts and I got nothing. Or how about having to go to school wearing rags and beg for the essentials I needed why you all wanted to for anything. How about the cherry on top that yesterday right before Mr. Reed showed up I was told that I was to get a job to support you all while I would get nothing?"
"Well," He said. "Its not my fault Mom and Dad didn't want you."
Laughing I said, "Per my inheritance I cannot give you anything. Not a penny or an item. I think after all these years I am going to be a bit selfish and do right by me."
Mr. Reed and his wife pulled up at that time and I asked, "Did you want to threaten me because that will not work very well Matt."
He looked a me and said, "You will regret this Abbie."
Sighing I said, "I doubt that Matt. Tell Mom and Dad I need my birth certificate and social security card. You know what never mind I will call social security and request a new number and if anything was opened in my name since I turned eighteen I will flag it for fraud."
Mat stalked to his and peeled out. Mrs. Reed asked, "Are you alright Abbie?"
"Yeah," I said. "I am. There will be more visits like that soon enough I am sure. There are six siblings. Please come in I started the entry way."
When we got to the kitchen Mr. Reed said, "We stopped by and spoke to Gracie. She said she spoke with you and you going to sell lots and consign some items."
Nodded I said, "That is true. I get the market place but the idea of meeting people either here or at another place makes me weary, especially when it comes to my parents."
Mrs. Reed nodded and said, "That may be a good idea. Is that why the car is out of the garage? Because your adding to it."
"Yes," I said. "The garage is packed and to be honest with you I am skinny but getting things in and out are difficult."
Smiling she asked, "What is your plans for the house?"
"Well I am trying to get up the stairs and to the master suite," I said. "I am trying to make a path to get to the suite to clean it out and remodel it. Looking at the map of the house I think it would nice that I have a room done. But I guess I have time and a way to support myself."
Mr. Reed said, "That is true. Now I am guessing no one ever opened you up a checking account. So we are going to go with you to open an account. Then your going to deposit the check from Mrs. Jenson left you and it is a lot. I am going to hold the home title and all important documents until you get your room done and get a safe."
"Alright that sounds good especially with my siblings starting to visit," I said. "What bank do you want me to follow you to."
"We are going to open you an account at Truist," He said.
"Okay," I said. "Also Mrs. Reed I have a question what laundry detergent do you use?"
She smiled and said, "Gain. They have wonderful scents."
"Good to know," I said. "I found some clothes that I want to keep and want to make sure I have laundry detergent for when I go to the laundry mat."
We left the house and I followed the Reeds to the bank. Thanks to them I was able to get my account opened and when I saw the amount of money I had received. Even if I did not work a day in my life or turn this home into a bed and breakfast I would never have to work. After we left the bank I ran into Walmart to get laundry detergent and softener. Before I went to check out I decided to look at laptops. I had enough money to buy one. Looking at my watch I decided to go to Graces shop. When I got there she looked up and said, "You must be Abbie."
"Hi Grace," I said. "I have a few boxes in the car if you have time."
"I sure do," She said. "Can you pull around to the back all sales happen back there so we can unload and look through all the items so customer's shopping do not hear what we are discussing."
"Alright," I said. Pulling around the back Grace opened the garage door and we loaded all the boxes onto a table.
Grace asked, "So I see some basic items and items I want to put in the consignment area. So let me separate them and take some pictures. Then I will give you a price."
"While your doing that can I asked you a question?" I asked.
"Sure thing what's up?" She said.
"Have you ever did garage sales which you run for a percentage of the sales?" I asked.
"Yes I have," She said. "Would that be something your interested in?"
"Yes it is," I said. "I read the county ordinances and they say you can have 1 sale a month. I was going to see what it would take to do one with you. I do not have the knowledge for the prices to hold a sale."
She laughed and said, "Well before we leave I will give you a date and we can arrange one. Normally if your supplying the items I will supply the time and knowledge I normally request forty percent of the sales. Then whatever is left I will buy or consign for you."
"That would be great," I said. "My goal this week is to get to the master suit by making a path to it."
She laughed and asked, "How is that going for you?"
"Slow," I said. "But I do TikTok videos as well and some of my videos are getting thousand of hits. If I can make some money from that so be it. After having nothing its nice to know I have a future."
Grace said, "It was that bad with your family?"
"Very," I said. "But I have a bright future ahead of me."
"That is the best viewpoint," She said. "So this table here are the items I want to consign. So I notated how many items and you can choose the amount of time or until it sells. Then you sign and I will get these on the shelves and racks. When I get them priced I will copy this form and add the descriptions. There are fifty two items here. When they sell I will send you a check once a month and the list will be updated with a line through the sold items and what it sold for. Every time I send you an check you will get a updated form. Yes you can have multiple lots as we have a lot of people who do this."
I signed the form and gave her the paper Mr. Reed gave me with the official address. When I gave her the first form back she said, "This pile here is lower end items and I will offer you a hundred for it all. Is that okay with you?"
"That sounds good," I said. "Mrs. Reed said I could trust your judgement."
She smiled and said, "For the items I buy I pay cash. Mrs. Reed is a wonderful woman I am glad to be friends with her."
After we finished she went into an office and made a receipt for the cash items and gave me a copy of the consignment items list. Joking I would see her soon she schedule the first yard sale. After we were done I stopped at Lowes to get a few more totes and headed home. When I got home I placed the paper work for today in my small suitcase under the bed and went to the entry way to work on my path. I made a few more videos as I worked on my way up the stairs. At six that night my alarm to end my day went off. Going outside I pulled the car into the garage and locked it up. Going back into the house I decided that I would make a pizza for dinner tonight along with a salad I could pick at the next few days. Putting on videos to listen to I cooked dinner. When it was done I ate while I set up my laptop.
After setting it up I ate and watched videos. Then after washing up I laid in bed watching TV happy with the fact that I accomplished a bit today. When I went to sleep that night I had a dream that in the kitchen doorway I saw Mrs. Jenson watching me with a content smile on her face.
******************************************************************************
When I woke up the next morning I remembered my dream. I said, "Mrs. Jenson are you here?"
"Yes," I heard. Then in the doorway of the kitchen she appeared.
"I thought I saw you last night," I said. "Thank you."
"Your most welcome dear," She said walking into the room and sat at the edge of the bed. "You know I am not the only one here. But they don't trust you yet."
Chuckling I said, "Well I hope to meet them soon but depending if they are stuck in other rooms it may be a while before I meet them. My goal right now is to get to the master bedroom so I can remodel it and have a bedroom. Although sleeping in the kitchen is quite cozy."
She laughed and said, "Well I am sure you are going to handle it just fine. I see you decided to keep some of the belongings."
"Yes," I said. "I found quite a few things I want to keep and am making money per your instructions with the rest. Now that things are set up for bank, phone and home I am going to dedicate myself to the house. I even have a yard sale planned in two weeks with Grace she is a friend of Mrs. Reed."
"Good," She said. "Just remember to live as well. I heard what you said about planning on making this home a bed and breakfast. I think that is a wonderful idea and I see you are making videos on the items you find."
"Well," I said. "I post small videos on TikTok and longer ones on YouTube. Maybe you and the other ghosts can help me make ghost videos later and we can claim to be the haunted bed and breakfast."
She laughed even harder and said, "Well we can cross that bridge but I would not mind having a video of me coming down the stairs."
"Well," She said. "You need to get your day started. I will be watching you and will visit again soon."
She disappeared in front of me. I got out of bed and went into the bathroom to get changed and ready for my day. Going into the kitchen after changing I made myself a bowl of cereal and ate while checking the comments on my TikTok and YouTube videos. Replying back to some of the videos I ate my breakfast. When it was done I washed my dish and went to start my way up the stairs. I made a few videos that morning and continued on up the stairs. When I filled my car I called Grace and asked if it would be a good time to come through with a car load. She told me of course and I headed to the shop. We talked about the upcoming yard sale and told me to save a bunch of stuff three days before but all I had to do was call before I head there.
When I got to her shop I waited my turn and she said, "How have you been Abbie?"
"Good," I said. "I have been making TikToks and YouTube Videos as I do unboxings. I am trying to make my way up to the master bedroom. I have kept some items for when I get rooms cleared. But in all honesty I cannot wait to start remodeling the room."
"That sounds so exciting," She said. "Where are you sleeping right now?"
"I have a small part of the kitchen," I said. "The entry way area I cleaned out has the sorted totes I have stacked up. But I sleep, eat and work in one room of the house. Even the bathroom has boxes in it."
"Well it seems like you are doing a great job," She said as she sorted everything onto the consignment and stock piles. "Will you have room to store the items for the garage sale?"
"Yes," I said. "For every pile that I get through I sort one box in the entry way. So I am still clearing downstairs but a lot slower. I will tell you I did find a box of records and am hoping I find a record player. I did not sort the records yet. Although I did see some I want to keep."
Her head went up and said, "Records are huge sellers so I can't wait to see what you get."
"Well that is the next box in the entry way," I said. "I will be doing a unboxing video of that today. I will admit I am getting more fast food than I normally should eat but I like to get stuff done. Besides I am burning calories with everything I am doing."
"Just remember to eat healthier," She said. "You know Chinese buffet does a per pound carry out."
"Oh I will remember that," I said. "I was thinking of making a big salad with chicken tonight."
Grace looked over the store pile and said, "One seventy five for the store items. Also that is a great consignment pile with 105 items and I will write that up for you now."
"Okay take your time," I said. Sitting on a bench while she got everything taken care of I answered more comments. When I found one on my YouTube that said, Could that house be haunted I replied, I believe it may be. Only time will tell. While I was waiting I finished my registration for influencer accounts and set my accounts to earn money. When Grace was done I signed both forms and she handed me the money. Going to the car I went to the Chinese Buffet and decided to get two to go boxes. I love sushi and Chinese food when my aunt and uncle came in they always made a point to take me out alone.
When I cashed out I headed home and ate before deciding to do a live stream on YouTube. Setting up my tablet I started the live stream. I saw a lot of people jump on and I said, "Hey everyone I am not sure how long this will be but I found a box of records and I thought I would sort them with you."
After I finished the records I stepped away to put my pile in a tote and kept speaking. When I looked at the screen I saw people asking who was in the bathroom doorway. Leaning over I said, "Guys I am the only one here."
Taking the tablet I took everyone into the bathroom with me and into the kitchen which is my room. "See everyone," I said. "It's only me here. But that being said I do need to get to work as I am trying to get upstairs to the master bedroom suite. So who would like to watch me remodel the rooms after I clean them out."
Everyone was super nice and said we are with you the entire journey. I ended the live video and set it for immediate view. When I started up the stairs to get another box I said, "I don't know who was in the bathroom doorway but the people watching my video saw you."
There was no reply and by the end of the day I had my car full and I was almost to the top of the stairs. Pulling the car back into the garage I locked everything up and went inside. Putting the chicken bites into the oven for my salad I made sure my mess was cleaned up. Leaving the box that was almost full pushed to the side. Going into the kitchen I made my salad and sat at the table to watch some videos while waiting for my food. Feeling a headache coming on I went to the front door and made sure it was locked. When my salad was ready to eat I sat down and started to eat. I heard my name called and looking towards the door I saw Mrs. Jenson.
"Good evening Mrs. Jenson," I said. "Come join me."
"Are you alright sweetheart?" She asked. "You look a bit pale."
"Honestly I have a bit of a headache," I said. "I think the excitement of the last few days is catching up to me. I know I need to eat but I just want some water and to go to bed."
"Abbie dear," She said. "Put your food in the fridge. Go wash your face and come lay down. Go on I will wait."
Standing up I put my food in the fridge. Placing my chair next to the bed I placed my laptop on it and plugged it in. Walking into the bathroom I washed my face and brushed my teeth. When I got to the kitchen I climbed into bed and I felt the bed depress as Mrs Jenson sat next to me. She asked, "What are we watching?"
Yawning I said, "It's called Paolo from Tokyo. He is an American living in Japan with his wife and son. They are educational and I learn a bit. If I fall asleep it will continue to play the next video."
"Rest Abbie," She said. I fell asleep a few episodes in and when I woke up the next morning Mrs. Jenson was gone. I still felt under the weather but my car was packed and I needed to unload it. Texting Grace I said I would be there as soon as she opens. She said come now I am here.
Getting ready I just washed my face and headed to Grace's shop. When I pulled up I leaned my head on the steering wheel. Grace came out and said, "Abbie dear you look horrible."
"Coming here is all I am doing today Grace," I said. "If I get any worse I am going to go to the emergency clinic."
She called into the shop, "Hey Mike can you help me."
She looked at me and said, "When we are done Mike will follow me and I will drive you home. You are so pale Abbie."
I closed my eyes and when I opened them Mrs Reed was next to me. We were still in Grace's back lot. Mrs Reed said, "Abbie love you are burning up. Grace called me and Mr. Reed dropped me off. We are going to the emergency clinic. I already got you an appointment."
Nodding I said, "Okay."
Grace came out and said, "Oh good Mike about called 911. Here is the cash for your store items. It's $200. This is your form for the consignment of 103 items. I will have Mrs Reed sign so she can drive you to get looked at I am wrapping the cash and putting it in your purse."
Mrs Reed started the car and I heard her tell Grace she would update her later. When we arrived at the emergency clinic the staff brought out a wheelchair and the nurse who came in first said, "Dear girl your skin and bones."
I flinched when she said it and mumbled, "Not my fault."
I listened to Mrs Reed explain my story. The nurse asked me if I have been eating and I said, "Every meal now. Well except for last night. I felt so sick I ate three bites and put my salad in the fridge. Then I went to bed. I just went to Grace's store to empty my car."
The nurse asked, "Who can make decisions for you dear?"
"Mr and Mrs Reed," I said. "My parents are evil."
"Understood," she said. "Abbie we need you to sign this consent form. It states the Reeds can give us permission to treat you."
I signed the form and closed my eyes. When I opened them again I had an IV in my arm and was feeling a bit better. Mrs. Reed smiled and pushed a button on the bed. When the nurse answered she said, "She is awake."
"Mrs Reed I am sorry I fell sleep again," I said. "What time is it?"
She gave me a smile and said, "Abbie sweetheart it's 9am the next day. You passed out."
"You stayed here with me this whole time?" I asked.
"Yes you silly girl," she said. "Mr Reed and I care about you and I would never leave you here alone. Now the doctor will be here soon enough to tell you everything. But do not worry everything will be alright and we will get you through this."
The Doctor came in and said, "Abbie it's good to see you awake. Before I tell you everything can you answer a few questions for me?"
"Sure," I said.
"Mrs Reed told me about your living situation and what you were living in before that," she said. "But can you tell me when you went to the Doctor last?"
"My parents never took me," I said. "I was there to be their maid. When Mr Reed found me they wanted me to work so they could have my paycheck."
"Alright," she said. "Do you have regular cycles?"
"No," I said. "They have never been right but my mom said deal with it."
"Alright Abbie we ran a bunch of test while you were out for the count," She said. "It looks like you have endometriosis which means you might never have children. Also your iron levels are super low. We need to see if we can get that up with supplements. We think you may also be hypoglycemic which affects your blood sugar. But all these things can get treated. Your body may be adjusting to a normal diet instead of scraps. You are severely underweight. Do you have any questions?"
"No," I said. "There is no chance at having a child?"
"It is a possibility,"she said. "But there are treatments and we can cross that bridge when we need to. Now that you are awake I gave Mrs Reed if everything you needed and Mr Reed got it and brought it to your house. So your medication and supplements are ready to start. You need to gain healththy weight and they got you a scale as well. Mrs Reed also did the paperwork for you for insurance it was approved and will be active on September 1st. Mrs Reed has all the information and you will receive all your cards in the mail."
"So what now," I asked.
"Your going to go home and watch TV and rest today and tomorrow," Mrs Reed said. "Then you can start what you were doing again."
An hour later we were on the way home. When we got there Mr Reed was waiting. When I got out of the car he said, "it is good to see you up again."
"It's so good to be home," I said.
Unlocking the door we went in. When I say on the bed Mr Reed said, "Everything they prescribed you is in this basket I know they went over it with you. I picked you up extra water and protein drinks. I did put some in the fridge already. Before I get Mrs Reed home so she can nap. Can we do anything else for you?"
"You have been amazing," I said. "Thank you so much for everything. I am going to stay in bed and rest the next few days. Best thing about my inheritance I can do everything at my own pace."
Mrs Reed leaned over and kissed my forehead saying, "if you need anything you best call me. Do not over do it. I will be checking on you later."
After they left I laid in bed and said, "Mrs Jenson they are gone you can come out now."
She appeared and asked, "Abbie what happened?"
I told her everything that happened and what the doctor said. When I was done I said, "So the next few days I cannot do a lot. I have to go to the Doctor on Monday morning to get rechecked. I may have to change my plan on what is going to be done first."
"What are you thinking then," she asked.
"I am thinking that I may get some of the sitting area near the stairs cleaned out and make that my room and start with the kitchen," I said. "The Doctor said I need to eat better and how better than to clean out the kitchen first and make it into a showroom of the home and update things. But first I need to get my bed out of there."
She gave me a soft look and said, "well the kitchen is my favorite room in the house."
My stomach started to growl and I got up and went to the fridge. I saw a tray of sandwiches, fruit and veggies. On the counter there was a package of paper plates and a note that said, no need to do dishes while your healing.
Making a plate I sat on the bed and opened my laptop. I asked Mrs Jenson how much she watched and she said. Go to the last episode you watched. I found them so interesting that I can watch them again. After I reset everything I had not watched Mrs Jenson joined me and we watched the shows. When I would nap she had me stop the series and would come back in when we were to watch more.
On Friday I started to feel better. I made a TikTok and explained my shift in plans and what caused it. Then I did the same thing for YouTube. After I made the videos I decided to make myself some breakfast and answered replies to the videos. While eating it dawned on me that I got more positive comments and feedback from complete strangers than I ever did from my own family.
Mrs. Reed stopped by every day to make sure I was eating and resting. While we sat visiting I told her my new plan for the kitchen to be done first and making a small spot in the sitting area or hallway for my bedroom. I explained as much as I would love a room to sleep in I think the kitchen would be good for my health.
While we discussed everything she looked around the kitchen and said, "Just remember to take your time with this. You do have all the time in the world and need to take care of yourself. Now what are your plans for the weekend?"
Laughing I said, "Resting and maybe making a few videos. I spoke with Grace this morning and she said she would be in the area on Sunday and would stop by to pick up anything I may want to sell. But I was ordered to relax and just be calm as we can start over on Monday after my Doctors appointment."
Mrs Reed chuckled and said, "You know we knew Mrs. Jenson quite well. I still feel her here. I guess she stuck around to keep an eye on you."
"I feel like she is here as well," I said. "She would baby sit me when my mother asked as she did it for free and she was always like the doting Grandma. I was very blessed to have her in my life when I was younger. I wish my parents didn't forbid me to see her after I got older and could be left alone."
After visiting with Mrs. Reed I walked to the area I had cleared past the kitchen and I heard, "Now Abbie you might be feeling better but you should not be doing much."
"I'm not I promise," I said. "I was thinking though. Instead of going all the way back to the sitting room I could make a spot in the hallway for my bedroom just by moving boxes back to the stairs and entry way. Then I could move things around in the kitchen so I can clean out that Pantry and do that and work on the kitchen. Moving boxes around would not be bad I have the hand cart. It would also mean I can visit people in the kitchen and not my bedroom."
"That is an idea," Mrs Jenson said. "But remember to not over do it."
"I promise I will not over do it," I said. "As soon as I feel the slightest bit tired I will stop and we will watch more videos. That will be for all weekend alright?"
She chuckled and said, "That is a deal and you know me and everyone in the home are watching you."
As I grabbed the hand cart I asked, "No one else wants to meet me yet?"
"No sweetie," She said. "Not because the don't want to. But until their rooms are cleaned out they are kinda trapped in them. But they said you are not to rush and they are watching you. Getting to know you. Since I was the last owner I can move freely."
"That makes me sad," I said as I got a pile of boxes and moved them to near the stairs. Measuring space I made sure I had enough room to get to the bathroom. "No one should be trapped."
I spent a good twenty minutes moving boxes and making space for my bed. I did set up some boxes in the hall so I could place my dresser and luggage on. As a I moved another pile of boxes I found I had an electrical outlet in the hall next to the pile of boxes I was going to use a a table for my laptop. I grabbed a tape measure and measured my bed and space I cleared to put it. Seeing I would have to move a few more boxes I decided to take a break when my lunch alarm went off.
Going into the fridge I heated up my leftover Chinese then added the last of the sushi and the sandwich. Sitting at the table I took out the cash from the sales to Grace and counted. I knew I wanted to be very frugal with what I had in my checking account. Although Mrs. Jenson left me a sizeable inheritance I wanted to make sure with my medical issues I did not over spend. Mrs. Jenson appeared as I was counting and she asked, "What's wrong Abbie?"
Smiling I said, "Nothing. I am just doing finances in my head. You left me with more than enough money to remodel the house and live for the rest of my life and for that I an so grateful. But I watched my parents be so frivolous with their money and I will not ever be like them. So I am making a financial game plan. I always dreamed of how I would decorate my own home and this is just a fraction of the money from selling things. I use this for my daily expenses and needs. I will also use all this for whatever I want to buy for the remodeling and the tools to do so."
"Your a smart girl," She said as she sat on the bed. "That pile there will get you started and you can always set up more consignments and sell more items before you need to get more supplies to decorate the rooms and remodel."
"That is true," I said. "Plus I do have income coming in from the videos I created. Speaking of which was that you who made an appearance in my video the night I got sick? When I sorted a box I went to add some record to the keep pile and everyone claims that they saw someone in the bathroom doorway."
She said, "That would be Miles dear he passed in that bathroom he is harmless but as that room is not cleared out he cannot leave yet. He gives you your privacy though no worries about that."
"Good to know," I called out, "Thank you Miles you got me a ton of new views on YouTube."
"How are you feeling Abbie," She asked.
"I am a bit tired that is why I am eating," I said. "By the way this kitchen table will be staying I love it. Do you know how old it is?"
She smiled and said, "Its over two hundred years old. It is solid oak."
Patting the table I said, "She just needs to be refinished then. She will be good as new when I finish with her. Same with the chairs. I do plan on having someone come through and check all the electrical room for room as I go. I want to make sure everything is up to code so there will be no surprises when I go to open our haunted Bed and Breakfast."
"Very smart," She said. "I tried to keep up on everything but in the rooms that were full it was not that easy. Remember a little at a time."
"So true," I said. "Also its nice that I don't have to clean as much now. I used to have to clean my parents home top to bottom every day. My brothers were pigs."
"Well you will do just fine here," She said. "I see you put all your dirty laundry of clothes you decide to keep and have to be washed in a bag to go take to the laundry. Soon enough you will be to laundry room. However you may want to consider having the washer and dryer replaced they are older models."
"I may have them serviced," I said. "But no need to toss them unless they no longer work. I plan on reusing a lot of what is in each room and I am keeping things that I think would go well in the house based on my vision."
"Your a smart girl Abbie," She said. "Now that your finished eating what are your plans?"
"I plan on moving a few more stacks of boxes," I said. "I am also going to move the totes I have holding items to the stairs since none of them are full. I am also considering doing a Walmart order."
"What is a Walmart order Abbie," She asked.
"Where I can order things to the house from the store and only pay a yearly fee for unlimited deliveries," I said. "Then I can stay home and relax."
"What are you ordering?" She asked.
"A laundry hamper," I said. "A garbage bag works in a pinch but a hamper is better to look at. A rolling cart to hang some of the items I found up and hangers. Besides more bottles water, garbage bag's."
Sitting on my phone I grabbed my check register and debit card and signed up for a Walmart Plus account. Then I placed an order for what I wanted adding some clothes I needed. Setting a alarm on my phone for when the window opens for delivery I went to move more boxes. About thirty minutes later I had cleared enough room that I had my own make shift room in the hallway and a place for my bed, dresser and closet. I also stacked some boxes for a side table for my computer and TV. Luckily there was a light right over where I was putting my bed with a wall switch."
Moving the dressers into the area I took apart the bed and moved it as well. When I was done I made the bed again and set everything up to make it more like a bedroom. When my alarm went off I went to the kitchen to await my order. I started clearing a path to the pantry and sorted through some boxes. I was happy I ordered the hamper because I found a box full of vintage sun dresses and kept quite a few of them. Adding them to the hamper bag in my room I figured when I go to do laundry I may have to have the bag and the hamper. After I got the delivery complete I put the extra garbage bags in the pile I had on the counter and dragged the hamper and shelving box to my room. When I was finished putting the closet together I placed the hangers on top and hung up the one sundress I owned.
Getting tired I called out, "Mrs. Jenson I am putting on the show again."
She appeared and said, "I am ready to watch. Abbie you did a wonderful job making this art of the hallway into a room for yourself. I like the hamper and the closet as well. It can be rolled anywhere you need it to go."
Running to lock the front door I laid down and said, "I am setting it for five episodes to start. That way if I fall asleep we won't have to reset to much."
Later that day I woke up to my phone ringing. "Hello?"
"Oh Abbie dear its Mrs. Reed," She said. "I stopped by earlier but you did not answer and I got worried."
"Hi Mrs. Reed," I said. "Sorry I did some stuff earlier and got tired so I laid down to watch some videos and fell asleep."
"Well you needed the rest," She said. "What did you do earlier?"
Waking up I explained how I created my own bedroom in the hall and slid everything in there. Then I told her how I got a hamper and hanging closet so I could work on the pantry first then the kitchen. But I thanked her for waking me as it was almost dinner time.
"Well what are your plans for tomorrow," She asked.
"I am going to rest on and off," I said. "But in the morning I am going to go to the laundry next door to Ishy Asian Market since both open early. I love healthy Asian food and wanted to stock up on some stuff that I cannot get at Walmart."
"You have been there a few days do you need to do laundry that much," She asked.
"Well when I ordered from Walmart I ordered new underthings, socks, joggers and tanks," I said. "Plus I found some clothes while going through everything. So I need to wash the new items and the older things I found."
"Do me a favor and take it easy," She said. "Grace said she was checking in with you on Sunday and was going to pick up stuff you may have. Just do not over do it please."
"I won't I promise." I said. "Now that I have my own room i get away from what I am sorting and relax. Doing what I did today made it a lot nicer for me and gives me a better sense of home."
"Good," She said. "I will swing by in the afternoon and check in on you."
"Alright," I said. "I will see you then."
Getting up I went into the kitchen and looked in the freezer to decide what I wanted to make for dinner. I took out a lasagna and garlic bread and placed them in the oven. Going to wash my face in the bathroom I decided while dinner was cooking I could work on my pathway to the pantry. I knew the pantry had a window in there and would lobe to see what I can do. As I sorted boxes I found very little I wanted to keep for now. Most boxes were just placed in a pile where my bed had once sat. Opening another box I found a bunch of hand made quilts. I kept the two I liked the most and added them to a new tote for blankets and linens for my room when I finally get to it. Now I know people will be like what if you change your mind on the totes once you get to the room. Easy then I sell the items no big deal.
Adding another box to the pile for Grace I went to check on the Lasagna. Since it was almost done I put the garlic bread in the oven next to it. Making more of a path to the pantry made me happy because I knew once that was done I could move things around in the kitchen. When my dinner was done cooking I placed it on the counter to cool deciding I would sort one last box. Opening the last box I found a bunch of shoes. Checking each paid I found four that would fit me and placed them on my closet in my room.
Washing my hands I went to eat when there was knocking at my door. Looking out the window I saw my father. I was going to ignore the knocking but I saw Mr. Reed pull up to the curb and opened the door, stepping out and shutting the door behind me.
"What," I asked.
"You need to let your siblings move in with you," He said.
"No," I said. "Anything else?"
"You can't tell me no," He said.
"I sure can," I said. "Because of being raised by you and mother I had to be taken to the Doctor and now have issues because of your care. The hospital is looking into my medical past as I just turned eighteen and I was never taken to the hospital. Now leave you, mom and my siblings are not welcome here nor will ever be welcome here even when I open this place up as a hotel and wedding venue you all will be permanently banned."
"Oh your so smart," He said. "Who is going to help you?"
Mr Red stepped up and said, "Her lawyer."
My Dad backed off and said, "This is not over Abbie."
We watched as he left and Mr. Reed said, "Abbie can I have a word?"
"Sure," I said. "Come in."
We went into the kitchen and he asked, "Where is your bed?"
"Oh you must not have been home yet," I said. "I told Mrs. Reed about what I did."
Showing him the room I made for myself he followed me back to the kitchen and we sat down. Looking at him I asked, "What's up."
"Just checking in with you and I had to ask you a question," He said.
"I am doing a lot better and will continue to do so," I said. "Did Mrs. Reed ask you to check on me?"
"No," He chuckled. "But the question has to do with my wife. Is she being to overbearing with you?"
"No not at all," I said. "I find it refreshing to have someone concerned about me."
"You remind her of our daughter," He said. "My son is grown up and runs a lawn business. He is the one who maintains the outside property. But our daughter passed away a few years ago due to a drunk driver and I think my wife is directing her mom self onto you. If your okay with it I will not say anything she knows your different from Natalie. But I wanted to make sure she was not being pushy."
"No she is not," I said. "I am grateful for her. My parents were shit and everything she has helped me with means a lot to me. Have you ever thought of getting her counseling?"
"She is in a bereavement group," He said. "But I have noticed how concerned she is with you. I wanted to make sure you knew what happened."
"Thank you," I said. "If she gets to overbearing I will be gentle with her. She said you all were going to stop by tomorrow so when you get here be surprised about my room."
"Noted," He said. "Now the Dad in me is curious a wedding venue and hotel. That is very doable here and when the time comes I will be your lawyer for all paperwork and contracts. I am impressed with the thought. Why did you make your room in the hall instead of going upstairs?"
"Eventually I will take the room next to the pool," I said. "But that big bedroom upstairs will make a beautiful bridal or honey moon suit. Plus what bride would not want to come down those stairs for her wedding."
"So what are you working on now," He asked.
"A path to the pantry," I said. "The kitchen after that. But with the pantry I can store food in there instead of the cabinets in the kitchen. I am not going to make big changes but I will love to update the paint and possibly the hardware. I think there is a fireplace behind all that as well and I will have each room inspected to make sure its up to code and keep those inspections handy"
"What a smart idea," He said. "Well I will be glad to give you numbers of trusted people. Just do me a favor for the sake of my sanity and my wife please do not over do it. We were so worried about you. Now you get to eating your dinner and I will be surprised when we stop by tomorrow. Are you going out at all?"
"Yes," I said. "The laundry next to Ishy Asian Market opens at 6 along with the market. So I am going to wash what laundry I have and my bedding from being under the weather. I want to stock up on my favorite things and I love Asian vegetables."
"See you tomorrow then," He said. I followed him to the door and locked it behind him. I checked the mail box attached to the wall and found some mail addressed to Mrs. Jenson that were ads and threw them in the trash.
Sitting down I ate dinner and decided it would be an early night. Grabbing my pajamas I went to take a shower and when I was done took the towels I used and placed them in the hamper. I went into the kitchen and made a small snack plate and said, "Mrs. Jenson I am starting the show again."
When I did not hear here I leaned back and started to snack while watching the shows. Getting drowsy I laid deeper on my bed and before long I fell asleep for the night.
*********************************************************************
When I woke up in the morning I felt better than I had in the last few days. Going into the bathroom I got ready to go out. Stripping my bed I added my sheets, pajamas and blanket to the hamper. When I was ready I grabbed my hamper, my bag full of laundry, the soaps and loaded up my trunk after locking the house. Since it was so early I had almost no traffic and stopped at Chick Fila for a chicken biscuit, Tots and sweet tea. Pulling into the laundromat I grabbed my belongings and went in. Using the change machine first, then I found three machines to wash my stuff and started each of the loads. Going back out to the car I started to eat my breakfast. I was just answering comments on TikTok when there was knocking at the window. Looking up I saw my sister Amber waiting for me to roll down the window. I opened it a crack and said, "Leave me alone."
She kept eating while she continued to knock. My alarm went off so I could put my stuff in the dryer. Sighing I opened the door, gathered my trash and locked my car taking my purse with me. Putting my trash in the garbage I went into the laundry and she grabbed my arm saying, "Listen you little shit do not ignore me."
"Leave me alone or I will call the police for harassment," I said.
"You need to give me money," She said. "I heard you have a boatload of it."
"Per my inheritance I cannot give you a cent," I said. "Now please leave me alone."
An officer came in the door and stood there when he heard me tell Amber to leave me alone. She went to grab my purse and I said, "Stop trying to get in my bag Amber your not taking anything else from me."
She went to raise her hand to me and the cop yelled, "That is enough."
She gave a smirk and said, "Sir she had my purse."
The officer said, "No its her bag she had it when she left her car. After she told you to leave her alone. Now I see you have the nursing college badge on you car. If you do not leave her be you will be arrested. Do you want to add lying to an officer to the charges."
She looked at me and said, "This is not over we will get your money and your house."
When she left the officer asked, "Would you mind sharing what that was about?"
While I switched over the laundry I told him about my family and my inheritance from Mrs. Jenson. Going over the conditions of the inheritance and my plans to turn the home into a hotel and wedding or event venue. Then I said. "I was never wanted or talked to until I received the inheritance. Because of them I have physical issues that the Doctor is trying to help me with now due to malnutrition and lack of medical care from a young age."
He looked at me and said, "Who is watching over you?"
"Do you know the Reeds?" I asked. "Mr. Reed is a lawyer in town."
"Yes I know them," He said. "Do you want me to call them?"
"No," I said. "Now that she left all I want to do is go shopping next door and by the time I am done there my laundry will be done."
He nodded and said, "Well after your Doctors in the morning give me a call here is my card. I will meet you at the court house and we will get you a restraining order. Bring a note from the Doctor as it will help get the order. Also I will be out in my car for a while I watch this area and I will make sure she leaves you alone."
"Thank you," I said and went next door to the store. Smelling all the familiar things I liked I went through starting with the non perishables and loaded my shopping cart. I made sure I had the noodles and rice's and all the extra. When I found all the sushi making ingredients and stuff for spring and egg rolls. By the time I added the meats and vegetables I like and headed to the frozen items. Standing in front of the case I saw buns and all the frozen I like. I may have bought a bit more than I planned and when I got to the prepared food case. I did order more than I planned but I figured it would be leftovers.
Coming out of the store after checking out I grabbed a hot steamed bun from a bag and went to check my dryer which had another five minutes. Sitting on the bench I saw that The clothes were starting to dry. Taking the hamper and bag I put all the clean clothes in them and headed to the house. When I got there Mr. and Mrs. Reed were waiting. I grabbed my laundry and said, "Hey I have to get this all inside. Just give me a moment."
Opening the door I placed the laundry into the bedroom and when I came out the reeds were bringing in my grocery bags. "You guys I would have gotten it."
Mr. Reed laughed and said, "We are early because I got a call from a client so if you don't mind Clara visiting while I go meet them really fast."
"Not at all," I said. "Mrs. Reed is always welcome here."
She patted my arm and said, "Clara dear."
"Alright Clara," I said with a smile.
We grabbed the last of the bags and went into the kitchen. "Please Clara have a seat. I have to figure all this out."
Placing the bags with the warm food in the oven I said, "Since you were stopping by I got some food for lunch. But I could not resist the different ingredients. These will be staples in the pantry when I finish it."
She gave a smile and said, "Show me what you got."
For the next hour I showed her the different items I got including all the fresh fruit and vegetables. She moved some of the boxed to the walkway and said, "That way there is room for all of us."
"Oh good idea," I said. "I have a small pile for Grace tomorrow but I will be honest I have been resting."
After putting everything away I said, "Why don't you follow me and you can see my room."
"I just want to put my things away before Mr. Reed--"
"Mack dear," She interrupted.
"Okay before Mack gets back and then we can eat," I said.
"Taking a bag from the hamper I said, "I was wondering where I put this."
Handing her the bag she said, "Oh I like these small dishes are they for dips and small amounts of food?"
"They are," I said. "It helps with the diets which I can add a little of everything into."
When I pulled out the blanket and sheets she took them and said, "I will make your bed while you hang everything up or out it away."
Adding all my items to the dresser and hung up the things that needed hangers. Clara looked around after I finished hanging everything and putting the hamper back and she said, "I like this you did a great job at making your own space."
Mack came back and said, "So what have you ladies been up to."
Clara said, "Abbie made her own room. She did such a great job using what she could at the moment."
Mack looked in and said, "I like that you made great use of the space."
Looking at them I asked, "Are you hungry we have food."
Mack said, "We can eat."
He sat down while I opened the food containers and placed our plates in the table with a few traditional condiments. As he was eating he said, "Abbie I heard you had a run in with your sister. The officer said he is meeting you after the doctors to do a restraining order on the family."
Nodding I took a drink and said, "Yes I am. She tried to take my purse from me and would not stop. I do not trust them as they keep saying they will take everything."
Clara said, "Would you like me to go with you on Monday first to the Doctors and then to the court house so you have moral support."
"That would be great," I said. "That way I do not miss anything. I do not even know what to ask."
"Of course Abbie," She said. "Being a Mom I know everything to ask. Besides how are Mack and I going to see you succeed if you have any medical problems. I will pick you up at 8am and we will go. Then after we will handle the restraining order."
We sat eating and relaxing for a while longer and when they had to go Clara hugged me and said, "Now you relax and do not over do it. If you need anything call me."
After they left I sat in my house and just listened to the sounds. While I listened I started to hear the voices of the unseen residents. Mrs. Jenson was right there did not seem to be a bad one in the group. Standing up I said, "Everyone it may take me some time to get to you but I promise I will get to you soon enough and when I have this house ready we will open the best haunted hotel and event center ever!"
Until dinner I sorted and added to my pile for Grace to get in the morning. When my alarm went off to cook dinner I decided to make a big bowl of rice noodles with some meat, vegetables and a broth to go over it. While everything cooked I continued to sort some more. Sitting at the table eating I answered more comments on my social media and then watched some videos. After I cleaned up my mess I set another timer to work on my path to the pantry. When it went off I grabbed pajamas and took a shower making sure the front door was locked.
Laying in bed I set up a play list and called out to Mrs. Jenson. Again she did not appear and seemed to be hidden or missing at the moment. I started the video's and soon fell asleep.
***********************************************************************
I woke up around three in the morning when I heard a noise. Something told me not to put the lights on I did grab my phone and Mrs. Jenson appeared and said, "There is a man outside the house. He has been checking the doors and windows."
Grabbing my phone I saw a light shine from the bathroom window. I ducked down and called the police. The operator answered and said, "911 what is the nature of your emergency."
"My name is Abbie Green I live at 2121 Marks lane and someone is trying to break into my house," I said. "I think he is trying to break in through the bathroom and that is the only room I would be able to hide in."
"Listen Abbie police are two blocks away and you stay low and out of site," She said. "Stay on the phone and do not hang up. Now listen do you hear anyone in the house yet?"
"No I see the light from the bathroom window," I said. "That is the only window not blocked but there is a huge bush in front of it."
"What do you mean?" She asked.
"I inherited this house a week ago and just moved in," I said. "The previous owner was a hoarder but a clean hoarder and she has this house packed top to bottom with belongings. I have been selling the items and clearing out the house to turn it into a event center and hotel."
"Its ok Abbie the police are arriving now," She said. "Do not freak out they have the guy and are knocking on the door now. Hang up now Abbie your safe and go talk to the police."
Hearing the knock at the door I went and unlocked it and the same officer I saw this morning was standing there. He said, "We meet again. Your safe and we have the guy trying to break in. He will not give us his name would you like to see if you can identify him?"
Walking over to the police car I saw the guys face and he screamed, "Do not tell them anything Abbie."
Looking at the officer I said, "That is my brother Chris. You will be able to pull up his records in your system he has a string of them."
The officer walked me away while Chris ranted and yelled. He said, "When the call came through I called Mack. Him and Clara should be here soon. We are taking pictures now but when we meet on Monday I will present the breaking and entering as well. You want charges pressed right?"
"Oh yeah," I said. We saw the car pull up next to the police car. Clara and Mack got out and Clara ran over to me.
"Abbie are you okay?" She asked as she hugged me.
"I am alright," I said. "Something woke me and I saw the lights coming through the open bathroom door. I called 911 right away. I am alright Clara I promise."
Mack talked to the police and said, "Bring Abbie inside this is wet air we don't want her anymore sick."
Going into the house we headed to the kitchen. I put the light on and said, "I cannot wait till we get that restraining order. I am also glad the house is so packed. But I was doing research. There are security systems that you can add to with loud sensors. I may pick up some when I start the pantry and install them in all the rooms of the house as I go room for room."
She nodded and said, "I agree. You seemed to have had a adventure this week with moving in."
Getting the tea pot filled I grabbed some mugs, instant coffee, tea bags, sugar and cream. As I started the tea pot I said, "That is an understatement. I know I will not be able to sleep after this so I guess I am starting my day. Thank heavens I was in bed by eight last night."
Clara looked at the pile in the middle of the kitchen and said, "It looks like you got a bit done."
"I did and I am almost to the door to the pantry," I said. "You have to see the skirts I found they are 1970's vintage. I kept quite a few of them. By the time I get to my room I will have a closet full of clothes with everything I keep finding and that is not a complaint."
Clara laughed and Mack came in with the officer. The tea kettle went off and I offered him some coffee which he declined. Mack said, "Your quick thinking saved you Abbie. Chris had a gun on him."
"Chris has always been stupid," I said. "I think after Grace comes by today I am going to go to Lowes and pick up motion sensor lights and security cameras to put on the outside of the house."
Mack nodded and said, "That is a great idea. When you go out to get them call me when your on your way home. We will come back over with out son Ben. He is the one who owns the lawn care business and him and I will put them up all around the property. We do not want you on a ladder. I know you have one its in front of the car in the garage so do not pull in once you back."
Clara handed Mack a cup of coffee as she poured herself some tea. Clara turned to the officer and said, "James you sure you don't want a cup?"
He laughed and said, "God no I am on my last hour and am heading home. I will never get to sleep if I have coffee now. Abbie I will have the reports ready for Monday and I am going to start everything for the restraining order which I am going to suggest an order of protection instead against your entire family. But for now do not over do it. When you told me boxes and packed I thought you were joking."
Mack walked him to the door and when he came back he said, "Well now that your awake what are you going to do Abbie?"
My stomach growled and I said, "Eat some breakfast and continue on for when Grace gets here. She has that pile right now. But I know I will have more by the time she arrives she said around ten in the morning. I want to have enough room she can do her sorting and such."
Clara stood up and said "Hand me a garbage bag I will take the clothes you found and wash them for you as we are coming back. You are not troubling me as all I was going to do is work in my garden."
I handed her a garbage bag and she came back with the full garbage bag. She said, "I know I am showing my age a but but my mom had skirts like these when I was a kid."
We all laughed and Mack said, "We will await your call. Come on Clara Lowes just opened and I promised you some new vegetable plants. I bet you can get a bunch in before Abbie calls us."
As they went to the door I heard her ask, "Do I have a spending limit?"
"No my love you do not," he replied.
When they left I saw a shadow in the bathroom and said, "Hi Miles. I hope he did not disturb you to much."
When I got back to the kitchen Mrs. Jenson was sitting on the chair. She said, "That was exciting now wasn't it."
Gathering the dishes I said, "He had a gun Mrs. Jenson. I do not think exciting is the word I would use."
She nodded and said, "Well you have a plan then. That is the best we can ask for at this time. But what are you going to do now?"
"I am making a ham egg and cheese sandwich and work on sorting things as I am almost to the pantry door," I said. "I may be in the pantry by the time Grace arrives and starts going through everything."
"Splendid," She said. "I like Grace I met her through Clara when I was alive."
I started to make my breakfast and then while I was eating I decided to make a TikTok and YouTube video. When I was done I set up my laptop to listen to videos and continued on while I was sorting. When the doorbell rang at 10 in the morning I opened it to see Grace and Mike. Mike said, "Man Abbie you look so much better today."
"Mike I feel a lot better now," I said. "Grace I have a huge pile as I have been up since someone tried breaking in this morning."
Mike stepped in and said, "Girl where do you sleep?"
I laughed and showed them my make shift room. He said, "You said packed but I thought two to three boxes not ceiling height."
"Yeah," I said. "This is going to be a labor of love. Especially when I start remodeling the rooms."
Grace said, "You said this was going to be a hotel, wedding and event center?"
Stopping by the stairs I said, "Could you imagine coming down those stairs for your wedding?"
She sighed and Mike said, "I would own those stairs. But it would be small intimate weddings right?"
"Yes same with events as well," I said. "Lets get to the kitchen."
When we walked in Grace said, "Do you know if that fireplace works yet?"
"I hope it does," I said. "My goal is the pantry first. But after I redo the pantry I will be starting in here. This pile here is for you to do your thing. I am going to continue on with my path to the pantry. After your done I am going to get security cameras and motion activated spot lines to help prevent break ins."
"Who tried to break in," Mike asked.
"My brother," I said. "He was also armed. Tomorrow after my doctors appointment I am going to be getting an order of protection from my whole family."
Grace said, "You have my card. Mikes and my phone number are on there. You know you can always call us. Oh Mike can you run out ad grab the empty totes so I can separate buy now and consignments."
He hopped up and went out. When he got back they got to work while I sorted even more boxes. When they were finished they had two stacks and Grace was filling out the form. She said, "That pile is buy now and that is $250.00, you also have 200 consignment items. Those clothes will sell for a great price."
"Yay!!!" I said as I took the cash and signed both forms. "I will bring you more stuff the next two days but starting Wed I will be holding everything here for the yard sale on Saturday. While your selling I will be going through stuff in the house unless I am up to remodeling the pantry. But even then I will be going back and forth. All the money I earn on cash sales and yard sales goes towards my daily needs and remodeling supplies. I want to save the money I inherited for my medical and future."
Mike came over and put his arm around me saying, "Little sister we got you. Your going to be just fine especially with our store we have you."
When they left I went to the box that I had found and counted out $1000 to get all the cameras and lights. As well as some drinks for Mack and his son. When I got to Lowes I found a sales person who helped me find everything I needed. Before I checked out I went to the garden department and found a hanging plant for Clara. On the way home I stopped and got a bunch of drinks and grabbed a burger to eat. I called Clara when I got home and she said they would be over soon. Going in I counted all the cash I had left and discovered I had $7054.00. Placing the small box under the head of the bed I went to the kitchen and continued on. The doorbell rang and when I answered it Clara was there and she handed me the garbage bag. I took the bag and handed her the hanging plant. She laughed and hugged me as she said, "I love it."
Mack came up the stairs and said, "Okay we got the ladder and ready for the lights and cameras."
I handed me a bunch of bags and said, "They said they are solar powered for the lights and cameras but they all have battery back up and wiring so its up to you on how to run it. Also there is a bunch of drinks in the fridge getting cold."
"Alright," He said. "Ben and I will check in with you ladies later."
Picking up my bag we went to my room so I could put away the laundry. We sat talking and when I got back to the kitchen I said, "Would you mind if I work on my path to the pantry?"
"No of course not," She said. "I will love to see how you do this."
Moving a chair to hold the already sorted box. I opened the next one and sighed saying, "I am so glad I got more totes. I have a feeling these will be used for the pantry."
I started pulling out a large amount of mason jars. Clara looked at the rings and lids and said, "A lot of the rings and lids will have to be replaced. But you can get them at good prices."
We checked the rings and lids tossing packing paper and the bad things we found. At the bottom I found more vintage cook books and added some of them to my keep pile. When I filled my next box I added it to my car and joined Clara on the porch. She said, "You know you could do a nice set of rocking chairs out here."
"I have been thinking about that," I said. "Maybe after everything settles down. Besides god only knows what's hidden in there rooms."
I let out a yawn and Clara said, "The day is catching up to you."
"Yes," I said. "It will be an early night tonight that is for sure."
"Well sweetheart you continue to do what your doing," She said. "I am going to read."
The guys came in a few times to get drinks and at 430 they said they had another hour. When they left to go back out I ordered pizza and wings for everyone. Clara said it was not necessary but I insisted saying that its the least I could do with t hem installing everything. When the pizza got here the guys were putting the ladder back into the garage. Mack looked at what I bought and said, "Hungry?"
"I figured you all might be," I said. "Its the least I could do."
Ben took the food and said, "Dad never argue with a woman who buys you pizza. Has mom not taught you anything."
We sat around the table eating and talking. When we finished eating it finally got dark enough to test the outdoor lights and cameras after Ben loaded everything on my phone. We walked the entire property and tested all the lights and cameras. When the guys were satisfied I pulled my car into the garage and they said goodbye. Clara confirmed that she would be to my house at eight in the morning. After they left I went inside and locked the door. Going into the kitchen I did one last clean up for the kitchen and asked out loud, "Mrs. Jenson do you remember what day garbage day is?"
I heard her laugh as she called out, "Tuesday and Friday dear."
Getting my Pajamas from my room I took a shower and laid in bed. I think I watched a half of a episode before I fell asleep. That night I slept in a solid sleep dreaming about the future in the home. I was positive that this place was going to be the best haunted hotel and event center ever.
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Abbie Green- main 2121 Marks lane (CASH 7054) (Inheritance 15000000)
Mr. Reed (Mack)- Lawyer Mrs. Reed (Clara)- Natalie daughter who passed.
Grace- Resell store 40 percent for yard sales
Mrs. Jenson- old babysitter deceased (Miles- entry bathroom)
Mom, Dad, Matt, Amber, Chris
Aug 11th.
1 consignment- 52 items
2 consignment- 105 items
3 consignment - 103 items
4 consignment- 200 items
