Stranger with the Stars

Home.

With Grace’s directions, I was able to locate the bank in the middle of town. We signed the last page on sight to ensure we had a third party witness. The teller was shocked to see the money come out, then right back into Grace’s account. The manager had to come out to ensure that we meant to do that. I was happy to be introduced to them, as it was my soon to be neighbors. They greeted me happily once Grace explained the situation. 

“Congratulations! Welcome to the town!” The manger beamed. 

“Thank you! I appreciate the warm welcome, and I hope to see you around.” I bowed my head to him.

Grace and I made our way outside. She turned to me, her face seemed to be full of relief. 

“It’s all yours. I can see you again at the end of the one year and we can start the sale process if you’re still interested then. Sounds good?” She politely asked.

“Absolutely, I’d be happy to see you again. I hope you don’t mind, but I’d like to ask if I could give the house a fresh set of paint?” I hesitated in the last part, I didn’t want my request to be disrespectful, and I didn’t want to do it behind her back.

“Of course. Please feel free to change what you need. I know it needs a bit of updating. Please treat it as your own. I know there’s a few kids around town if you’re looking to fill the second bedroom. I assume you may be. My phone number is on both the contract, and on a note I placed inside a kitchen drawr. Don’t be afraid to reach out.” She responded softly.

“I did consider it, thank you for reminding me. I’ll call you with any issues or problems.”

“Thank you dear. I entrust you to make the choices you need. There are three keys on that ring set. If you need to make more copies, please do.” With a last goodbye, she walked off to a restaurant nearby. 

I tried to offer her a ride anywhere she needed to go. She brushed it off saying there was no need. Luckily, there was a hardware store in the same parking lot, just a bit away. I popped into Borus to bring him closer to it in case I purchased too much for the house so soon. I wanted to get started, like now. I parked within view of the doors. There were a few other cars out front. Nothing special. That was until I heard an engine rev not too far away. 

Climbing partially out of borus, I stood where I could have my arm on the roof, foot still on the door frame. I could see the light nearby, with the car who made their presence known. It looked to be a brand new sports car of sorts. Maybe a charger? Maybe a challenger? Something manly for sure. I knew it was aimed at me, I was the only competition around to consider. They didn’t move at first when their light turned green. It was too far to tell if they could see me looking at them, or to tell if they were looking at me. After a few honks, it sped off down the road. Leaving me confused. Not even a full day, and I’ve angered someone with my presence.  

Finally getting my bearings, I hopped down from the truck, locking her up and heading in. 

It was your average big hardware store. Nothing fancy. I made my way to the paint section, picking up a few gallons of white paint. I made sure to grab a cart so I could hit up the cleaning section too. I was going to scrub the s**t out of that house. The cashier up front was a smaller guy. 

“You sure you don’t want to just buy all the white paint we have, you big baller?” He shot at me.

“Thought about it, but then I couldn't spend time with you if I did it all now.” I shot right back. 

“Not my type, sweetie.” He drew out the last word to make his point clear. I wasn’t in his playing field. I hadn’t meant for it to come off like I was. 

“Sorry, I wasn’t hitting on you. I was just trying to be sarcastic back..” I rambled out. I raised my hands to show defeat. He raised an eyebrow at me, granting the tiniest smile. 

“It’s fine, I’m just messin with you. Seriously though, if you’re cleaning a house, you’re gonna be back. I’m not gonna question what might be on the walls now. I’m here till 10. Come bother me again.” He casually responded.

“Wha? Me? Little ole me gets to bother you again?” I playfully gasped at him, placing a hand over my heart. 

“Yeah, you’re a good one. I’m Archer. Call me Archie. Arch if you’re lazy.” He stuck his hand out.

“I’m Ellie. Ell if the syllables are too hard.” I eagerly shook it. He gave me a full dazzling smile. 

“You’re new around here for sure. Let me guess, college or dead relative?” Archie raised his eyebrows at me.

“Neither. Renting to own a house with some distance from home. Wanted a new life full of rampant squirrels who hurl themselves off trees at you. Just like every other person, ya know?” I leaned onto the cart handle bar.

“I see. Wanting to be a small town heart stopper. Got you. I warn you, some of the genes out here are outrageously stunning.” Archie then gave a twirl.

“How could I ever keep my hands off.” I sarcastically catcalled.

“The boys never can, but please feel free to shower me in the compliments I so rightfully have earned.”

“As many as you wish, my dear hardware mistress.” I fanned my hand in front of my face for dramatic effect.

“Oh, I’m keeping you. Remember, be back before 10. Make a list of what you need, I’ll judge it thoroughly.” 

“I’m honored, quivering, and dying to be judged. Thank you.” I blew him a kiss making my way out. I happily skipped the cart to my truck. I was happy to make a new friend so soon, and one who shared the same humor as me. I beamed my whole way to the new house.