For now, the author decides to focus on the inheritance itself. A bit of property—a condo—yes, a condo—on the Azores Island. Surrounded by a grove of palm trees, a nearby stop sign finds itself inveigled by a bushel of hibiscus blossoms, magenta in all its magnificence.
From what photos she has of her childhood and those culled from the internet besides, she imagines herself stepping foot at the street corner at this early an hour, checking both sides before racing across the street to a tall plaster white building with burnished stucco roofing. The coast is clear. Inserting the key into the ancient lock, the tension gives as she makes her way inside, unsure of what exactly to expect.
A plain tiled floor, common in these parts due to the tropical weather. A compact wood table to the immediate left within the entryway, to place one's valuables. Closing her eyes, the author visualizes the rest, based on photos upon photos, superimposed with her own island story.
Once upon a time...
She imagines more of the crisp, cool tiled flooring, along with picture windows every which way, a living room corner with a crimson ergonomic sofa, and a curved koa wood table directly in front, a glistening, honeyed timber. State of the art appliances too, she visualizes as a stainless-steel kitchen island and refrigerator emerge from thin air to rest within the conjured scenery. A spare guest bathroom to the direct left past the entryway. Instantly, she senses its shape from where she stands, some feet away.
What then, would there be to do? Her aching limbs require respite, her mind too, and she bears some sympathy for the industrious protagonist who has experienced loneliness all her life, though she herself knows she (and the protagonist) embrace solitude, when it is opportune. Glancing past the picture windows, she sees a balcony and a sunken-in hot tub to rest one's weary physicality.
Smiling, she walks forward to assess the results, which she feels will be to her utmost satisfaction. That being the case, the author turns to her right, carving out a master bedroom with a queen—no, a king-sized bed. Neutral oceanic colors create soothing ambiance, as she quietly adds a full bathroom, complete with shower, sink, the usual.
Finding her scenery complete (for now), she slides the screen door open, traversing the balcony as she welcomes the balmy sunshine with outstretched arms.
...A home was made.
Epicenter Pico.
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The Inside Diaries
Short StoryA fanfic author and her cat welcome escape in her tropical alternate universe, in a series of short chapters.
