The House In The Woods

Chapter 5- Discussion

When Jack and Diane made it home, they walked into the house to find everyone around the table eating supper. "You guys made it back just in time, I just got done making supper. Sit down and I'll make you both a plate. So how did it go, any luck?" asked Rhonda eagerly. "Well, in the beginning it went horrible. The houses were either too high in price, not enough property, or the house itself needed a lot of work. But as we were headed back home, Diane spotted a "for sale" sign and we figured we'd go check it out. The house is an old plantation home, and needs a lot of work. It's got 50 acres and they're asking only $20,000 for all of it which is unbelievable."

"Wow Jack, you couldn't ask for a better deal!" "Well, actually I'm going to try. Yes that deal's awesome and all, but really in all honesty that place ain't for us. If I can get them down to $13,000 I'll do it, and that way I can take the $7000 plus a little extra and use it for fixing up the place." said Jack. "It seems you got it all planned out then, I'm happy for both of you." Rhonda said happily. "Yeah, and that's why I leave all the complicated stuff for him." Diane giggled. "I can also help with the electrical stuff that's needed if you end up getting it." Ted offered while putting a bite into his mouth. "Oh that would be great dad, and of course we'll pay you." "I'll get the materials I can from work, but if you could just supply the stuff needed that I can't get that's all I'll ask. It's nice to have an electrician in the family isn't it?" Ted said smiling. "It sure is, but I'd still want to pay you something for your time and work." Jack said after wiping his mouth with his napkin. "Well, I won't give you an amount, all I ask is you supply the materials needed that I can't get, and if you want to throw in some boot I'll let the amount be your call. Honestly though, I'm happy to do it." "Ok then, sounds like a plan." Jack said while scooping out seconds of Rhonda's chicken and rice casserole.

The kids were soaking up every word being said as they ate. "Mom, do we have a new place to live yet?" asked Scotty while poking at a small piece of mushroom with his fork. "Maybe honey, there's a few things we've got to take care of first though before we can buy it. You and Penny will both be able to have your own rooms in that house though, won't that be exciting!?" "If it's a big house I don't know if I want my own room, the scary man might come out of my closet and get me." "What man are you talking about?" asked Ted slightly giggling. "Billy Thurman at school said there's a man that lives in the closet, and if I'm alone at night in my room that's when he'll come out and get me." said Scotty nervously. "Honey, there's no man that lives in your closet I promise. Billy probably only told you that just to scare you." Diane said. "You'll enjoy your own room. You'll be able to decorate it however you want to and it'll be all yours." "Yeah, I guess that would be good, I wouldn't have to have any girl stuff in my room anymore." "That's right, and you could help mommy paint the room and pick out the things you like and want for your room." said Diane trying to get her son excited about the idea. "I want my own room mommy, I'm not scared of any man in my closet!" Penny said happily. "Okay sweetheart, you can have your own room too." "Can I help you paint and decorate it too like Scotty?" "Of course you can, now let's get you two ready for bed." Diane said while getting up from the table and collecting their dishes.

The kids kissed their grandparents good night and made their way upstairs to brush their teeth and get into their pajamas. "Your mother and I'll be up in a minute to tuck you both in." Jack hollered to them as they made it to the top. "Tomorrow I'll call that number that was on the sign and talk to them about that house." Jack said while getting up and pushing his chair in. Rhonda and Ted did the same and picked up the rest of the dishes. "Who knows, maybe you'll be proud homeowners by the end of the week!" Ted said. "Yeah, that would be pretty awesome. Well, I think I'm gonna go onto bed now it's been a long day." said Jack. "You both go on and get you some sleep and we'll see you in the morning." Rhonda said while loading the dishwasher.

Diane hugged and kissed her parents good night and started up the stairs. Jack said his goodnights as well and followed Diane. They tucked their kids in then went off to bed. Rhonda and Ted watched a bit of TV before heading off to bed themselves.