Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: Surprised (09/06/07)
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TITLE: Treasured Memories and Childhood Dreams | Previous Challenge Entry
By Rita Garcia
09/12/07 -
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“Jared, this is it. Listen. ‘One of Cedar Falls most noted historic homes, perched on a corner lot with unmatched panoramic views of the bay and city. This Queen Anne has been restored to her original splendor, and is situated on an artfully landscaped lot.’ ” Pushing her golden-red hair behind her ear, she reached for the phone.
Jared’s smile reflected the love he felt for his new bride. “See if they’re showing it today.”
“We have to hurry. There will be someone on site showing the property until 1:00 this afternoon.”
Charlotte fell in love the moment her she laid her eyes on the grand Queen Anne house. The huge third floor attic, with beveled windows overlooking the bay, made the perfect backdrop for her art studio.
While Charlotte floated from room to room, Jared was totally captivated with the library/study on the second floor. “Charlotte, you must come see this.”
She swept into the room as if she were born to the same era as the gracious old home. “Oh, Jared, this is where you’ll have your office.”
He put an arm across her shoulders, “that’s what I was thinking.”
She pulled away from him and danced over to the window which looked down on the courtyard. “I can’t believe this is going to be our new home.”
“Don’t get your heart set on it just yet.”
She turned and the sight of her husband made her pulse speed up, she had also fallen in love with him the moment they met. His rugged yet handsome looks often turned the ladies’ heads.
“It will be ours, some things are just meant to be.” She whispered softly.
“You’ll get no argument from me on that account.” He guided her downstairs where they talked to the agent and signed an offer.
Charlotte’s spirits soared when they learned their offer was accepted. The grand house would be theirs, and she couldn’t wait to start making it into a real home. Four months later, moving day finally arrived.
Amidst boxes and misplaced furniture, she knew trouble brewed from the look on Jared’s face when he answered his cell phone. As he clicked the phone closed, she knew the answer before she asked.
“What’s going on?”
“It’s the office. I need to fly out to Buffalo tonight. You know I wouldn’t go if I had a choice.” He pulled her into his arms.
“I know. It’s just … never mind. We’ll celebrate when you get home.”
Jared was gone within the hour. Charlotte tackled the kitchen, unpacking dishes and filling the pantry with food supplies. With a yawn she decided the rest could wait until morning, and curled up on the sofa with a blanket. The minute her head found just the right spot, she yawned once more. She awoke to a stream of soft sunlight in her eyes, but it was the noise she heard that caused her sit up wide awake.
I know that’s not my imagination. There is someone trying to get in the front door. A call to the police brought help. She hesitated before opening the door.
“Are you okay?” The officer expressed concern.
“I heard someone trying to get in.” She folded her arms, as if in protection.
“We looked around and all we found was this little dog in a basket. He’s wearing a bow with a note attached.”
“He can’t be for us, we just moved in.”
The officer appeared flustered as he carefully detached the note. “A little guy to keep you company. Love, Jared.”
Embarrassed, she reached for the puppy. “Jared is…he’s my husband. I’m sorry…what I mean is, thank you. I didn’t mean to cause you any trouble.”
The officer smiled and touched the brim of his cap. “It was no trouble ma’am. He looks like a Dalmatian. Shall I set this basket inside the door for you? Looks like he came with food.”
“Yes, please.” She thanked him once more, took the lively bundle inside and placed him on the kitchen floor. A giggle escaped her lips as she watched the antics of ‘Little Guy,’ who had already captivated her heart. Oh, Jared, you remembered. She once told him about the Dalmatian puppy she so desperately wanted as a child.
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