don’t
want to be freezing in your own home.”
Melissa’s face fell slightly, but she quickly regained her professional composure. “I understand your concerns. The building management might be open to discussing upgrades to the windows or additional insulation. Would you like me to inquire about that?”
Laura considered for a moment, then shook her head. “Lappreciate the offer, Melissa, but I don’t think it’s worth pursuing. Even with upgrades, I’m not sure this space would ever be truly energy–efficient. And I don’t want to start off in a new home already planning.
major renovations.”
Melissa nodded, clearly disappointed but understanding. “Of course. Your comfort and long–term satisfaction are the most important
factors.”
As they prepared to leave the loft, Laura felt a wave of frustration wash over her. She had been so hopeful about this place, and for a moment, she had thought she’d found her new home. Now, she was back to square one,
“Hey,” Jen said softly, noticing her sister’s dejected expression. “We’ll find the right place. It just might take a little longer than we hoped.”
Laura forced a smile. “Yeah, I know. It’s just I really wanted this to work out,”
Melissa, overhearing their conversation, chimed in. “You know, I have one more property I’d like you to see. It wasn’t on our original list for today, but I think it might be a good fit. Would you be willing to take a look?”
Laura glanced at Jen, who shrugged encouragingly. “Why not?” Laura said, mustering up some optimism. “Lead the way, Melissa.”
HAPTER TWENTY–FIVE–The Storm Brews Close
they left the lott building, Laura tried to shake off her disappointment. She reminded herself that finding the right bome was a
ready ocess, and that the perfect place might be just around the corner. With renewed determination, she climbed into Melissa’s car,
whatever the next property might bring
elissa pulled up to a quaint townhouse in a quiet residential area. Laura felt a flutter of hope as she took in the well–maintained terior and the small, charming front garden.
his looks promising,” she murmured to Jen as they stepped out of the car.
elissa led them up the path, unlocking the front door with a flourish. “I think you’re going to like this one,” she said confidently
they stepped inside, Laura was immediately drawn to the cozy living room. The space was warm and inviting, with plenty of tural light streaming through the windows.
th, this is nice,” Laura said, her eyes roaming over the room
hey moved into the kitchen, which had been recently updated with modern appliances and sleek countertops, Laura could already cture herself cooking meals and entertaining friends in this space
they continued the tour, Melissa’s phone rang. She glanced at the screen and frowned. “I’m so sorry, but I need to take this. It’s an gent call from another client. Do you mind if I step outside for a moment?”
No problem,” Laura assured her. “We can keep exploring on our own.”
elissa nodded gratefully and hurried outside, leaving Laura and Jen to continue their tour.
Want to check out the basement? Jen suggested. “It’s always good to know what kind of storage space you’re working with.”
sura agreed, and they made their way down the stairs. She flicked on the light switch, illuminating a spacious area with concrete bors and exposed beams.
This isn’t bad at all,” Laura commented, noting the ample storage space and a separate laundry area.
hey wandered around the basement, discussing potential uses for the space. Laura was so engrossed in their conversation that she idn’t hear the faint click of the door closing behind them.
wasn’t until they tried to leave that they realized something was wrong Laura turned the doorknob, but it wouldn’t budge.
Jh, Ten? I think we’re locked in,” she said, a note of panic creeping into her voice
n tried the door herself, but had no luck “Melissa!” she called out, “We’re stuck in the basement!”
hey waited for a response, but none came. The thick walls of the basement seemed to swallow their voices
She must still be on that call,” Laura said, trying to stay calm. “Let’s look for another way out.”
hey scanned the basement for windows, but the few they found were far too small for an adult to squeeze through. Laura spotted a
olbox in the corner and rifled through it, hoping to find something to pry open the door, but came up empty–handed.
I can’t believe this is happening.” Laura groaned, sinking down onto an old moving box.
ours passed, and the sisters exhausted every idea they could think of to escape. They tried using their cell phones, but there was no gnal in the basement. They searched for a landline, but found none.
s evening approached, they realized that Melissa, unaware of their predicament, must have left, assuming they had departed on
Ieir own.
Well, I guess we’re spending the night here,” len said, trying to inject some humor into the situation. “At least we’re together, right?”
aura managed a weak smile. “Yeah, just like our camping trips when we were kids. Except with less s’mores and more concrete”
hey found some old moving blankets in a corner and used them to create makeshift beds. As night fell and the basement grew cold, ey huddled together for warmth.
Remember that time we got locked in the tree house?” Jen asked, her voice soft in the darkness.
sura chuckded. “How could I forget? Dad had to climb up with a crowbar to get us out.”
jey passed the night talking, reminiscing about childhood memories and discussing Laura’s plans for the future. Despite the
comfortable situation, Laura found herself grateful for this unexpected time with her sister.
As morning light barely penetrated the small basement windows, Laura and Jen were jolted awake by the sound of footsteps above. They heard Melissa’s voice, apologizing profusely to someone on the phone.
“Melissa!” they shouted in unison, their voices hoarse from the previous day’s attempts.
There was a moment of silence, then hurried footsteps. The door flew open, revealing a shocked Melissa
“Oh my god,” she gasped, taking in their disheveled appearance. “Have you been down here all night?
