He gives me such a sweet smile I almost feel overwhelmed by it, because today is just a lot. I can’t really say much or offer any means of appreciation for his hospitality, because I really just need a second to breathe. “Sure. Thank you.”
Just like he stated, the place isn’t too far from the city limits. “We’re here,” he says as we pull up to what I can only describe as a beautiful masterpiece. This place is like one you see in the movies, a two-story home painted white with black shutters and accents, and the best part is the wraparound porch.
“It’s perfect. Truly perfect.” I didn’t mean to say that out loud.
“He built it just a couple of years back. It’s the gem of Cherry Hill.”
“You don’t say. This is too much. Are you sure there isn’t someone else he would want to leave this to?”
He laughs. “No, ma’am. You are the sole person named in his entire will. Welcome home.”
“I—I can’t accept this. It’s too much,” I repeat the second we’re out of the car.
“You are welcome to sell it to someone, but other than that, it’s yours. Come, I’ll help you get inside.”
I follow slowly, unable to take my eyes off of everything. The home is truly a work of art; I can’t believe this is happening. I would pinch myself, but I don’t want Jack to think I’ve gone mental. Though, could he blame me?
“Here are the keys. There is a shed just a few feet from the back steps that has yard tools and equipment in there if you need anything. And here, take my card.” Pulling out his wallet, he pulls out his business card and hands it to me.
“Thanks, I’m sure I will use this. I’m just a little overwhelmed today. Thank you for everything, Jack.”
“You are more than welcome. We will talk soon, I’m sure, but have a good rest of your day.” With that, he’s off, and I stay standing in the middle of the entryway, the sound of the door closing deafening.
“This is your new life, Hanna,” I whisper to myself. “Where do we start?”
I finally set into motion, walking into the first room on the left, which is a sitting room. The furniture is homey, surprisingly modern and not outdated. I don’t know what I was expecting—maybe floral couches with plastic on them? There’s some art hanging above the fireplace, the shiplap wall and black brick fireplace contrasting perfectly. My grandfather must have paid someone to decorate. This looks like it was done by professionals who know styles and art.
There is an open passage that leads to the kitchen, and I head there next. This is even more stunning than the front room. The cabinets are painted white with glass doors so you can see everything inside. And everything in them is organized and monochromatic, leaving it to look clean yet effortless. The countertops are a gray, white, and black marble, and the backsplash is glossy white tile.
The kitchen island is shiplap and marble, with a vintage, western-style canned light hanging above it. There is a window above the sink, and stepping up to it, I peer out into the wide-open green land. The hills are rolling in the distance, and I’m stuck in place, looking at the beauty.
Peace.
This is what that must feel like. True and utter peace.
Willing myself to step away to explore some more, I still hold onto that feeling that peering out the window gave me. Hoping it will bring me some comfort and understanding during all this. Stepping back into the hall, I head back toward the front door. There is a living room to the right and stairs. I look into the living room, seeing a TV and a sectional couch with a coffee table. There is a bay window that looks out to the front of the house.
The upstairs is next. The stairs are a dark wood on top and accented with black on the front panels, and the rails are white. Details—JD must have been anal retentive, very particular, and detailed. I’m not that way. Sure, I’m no slob, but I’m in no way this attached to perfectionism. The hallway at the top of the stairs is lined with windows; it’s unique. I would have never thought to do something like that.
Detailed and talented. I’m learning something new about the man who was my grandfather. It’s feels weird saying that, but I guess I can’t deny it or run from it now. I’m in the middle of the beautiful farmhouse home he left for me with millions of dollars now in my name. Each bedroom is simple. Beds, dressers, closets, the typical, but the master bedroom, this is anything but typical. The entire right wall, facing the back of the house, is floor-to-ceiling windows. And I do mean the entire wall, in height and width.