The Estate Agent

The Estate Agent

'Quick,' Lily pushed her sister Ruby into the lounge and then down behind the sofa. They crouched silently, holding their breath, ready to spring up and flee in an instant.

The door opened and three people entered, a couple in their thirties and a younger man in a suit, hair immaculately styled and smile set to beam over white veneered teeth.

'You won't find a living room this big in many properties around here. It's perfect for entertaining. The patio doors open up the whole room too, giving you a fantastic view over the city. Take a look. The owners are in the garden but they won't mind.'

The couple murmured agreement as the doors were opened and they stepped outside.

Seizing the opportunity, Lily grabbed Ruby by the collar and dragged her out of their hiding place into the hallway, then up the stairs.

'Hide in the airing cupboard. Play the pipes when they come up here. I'll go in the wardrobe and tap. Don't let them see you.'

'It's a lovely garden, yes,' the woman was saying as they reached the top of the stairs.

'Take a look at the master bedroom. It's ensuite too.'

'Mmm, very ni¦What was that?'

The three stood still looking in all directions, up, down, around. Even the estate agent seemed thrown off guard.

The noise sounded again. A tinkling percussionary musical note.

They saw through the windows that the owners were still in the garden.

'Must be the pipes,' said the man.

'I hope it doesn't do that in the night,' replied the woman. 'I'd never sleep'.

The estate agent tried to reassure them it was a one-off but the mood had altered. The couple had clearly decided against the house and even as the estate agent admired the views and praised the modern décor he knew a potential sale had yet again been lost. He hated this property.

Knowing the plan had worked, the twins remained silent. Lily hugged her sister, 'We did it. We did it. They can't move out now.'

In the garden Ed hugged Rachel. 'Maybe tomorrow we'll get an offer. They seemed happy enough when they were out here.'

'But weren't they quick upstairs. What's wrong with this place for other people?' Rachel looked at Ed with anguish, 'I can't stay here much longer. All the memories. I can't even go into their room without crying.'

Ed hugged her closer. 'If we can't sell it we'll rent it out. Don't worry.'

'Ok, but soon please,' she pleaded, looking into Ed's eyes.

'Ok, a month, then we go, whatever happens.' He kissed her gently. 'We'll move on and put the fire behind us.'

Lily listened to every word. She would not let them move, 'They're staying here with us forever.' She told the silent Ruby.