Part 2.5 Arrival
Holly Ramsey was glancing all around as Peter drove slowly up the long, narrow, gravel drive that led to their weekend getaway house. The woods were thick even in the front area of the property. Finally the old white colonial house came into view.
Holly was the first to speak after a long silence during the car ride.
“I’m going to jump out and get some outside pictures before it gets too dark. It looks quaint.”
As soon as the car stopped, she was true to her word.
Peter offered. “I’ll get your luggage.”
She nodded and called over her shoulder, “Thanks.”
Holly pushed her way into the trees at the front of the house so she could take some front shots. After photographing the scenery along the drive she walked briskly around toward the back of the house.
Her mood was up beat as she mentally cataloged her impressions. House needs some paint, but what house doesn’t? Lots of shade. Nice and cool. I bet it’s pretty in the fall. I wonder what the rooms are like inside. It’s a two story with an attic it looks like.
She glanced around. I wonder if there are any other out buildings around. All these trees aren’t helping. It gets dark fast once the sun goes down. Oh well, can’t hurt to explore some.
The other three occupants stood by the car surveying their surroundings.
“It could use a new coat of paint.” Peter Early observed. Then he added, “Looks like some shingles on the roof are missing. Hope it doesn’t leak.”
“Yeah,” Alex marcus agreed. He pointed. ”There are a couple of chimneys, so there must be fireplaces inside. I’ll go see if I can find a ladder so I can check them out at the roof top.”
“Shouldn’t you wait until morning to do that?” Missy Marcus asked.
“We might need to use them. I’ll just take a quick look around to see what I can find.”
Missy spoke to Peter.
“I don’t know about this. What do you think, Pete?”
“I agree with you, Missy, but Holly sees enthusiastic about it.”
As Peter and Missy took the group’s belongings to the house, light outside was beginning to fade. Thick tree cover around the property added to the blanketing effect. The sky was also becoming over cast with thickening gray clouds.
Holly and Alex were walking back toward the house together. Darkness was fast approaching.
“Thanks for helping me with that ladder, Holly. I’ll feel better about using those fireplaces now that I know they will be safe.”
“I’m glad you found that shed, Alex. Hey, this is kind of exciting after all, don’t you think?”
“That remains to be seen.”
When they opened the creaking, heavy front door and stepped inside, the four of them explored the house together. Afterward, Holly went immediately up stairs to her room with her camera and equipment.
You have handled the four friends, their dialogue and movements well as they check out the house they are going to share for the weekend. The darkness and the old building brings an ominous sense to the story. Anything could happen next. I enjoyed it.