8 Belknap

I moved into an antique house yesterday. Rundown, dusty and full of electronics from the the 60s and 70s. It’s the kind of house for which an explanation was owed to an interested third room mate for why you were even here — “We love it” Alexandra and I would chime in unison each time.

I met Alexandra at the sewing school in Arlington two weeks back. Frank had mentioned that she’s a ‘smart cookie’ just like me and that if it was alright with her then I was good to move in. The bus dropped me off at Mass Ave and I wandered trying to find the place without a sign. Alexandra popped out into the street to come and greet me. She was dressed in casual jeans and a black t-shirt with her hair pulled back- she was pretty in a careless way and had an air that was light and welcoming. We hit it off immediately- she sews historical costumes and nannies 3 boys in the area — I asked if they could come over to the house sometimes — she said it was already planned because she wants to do a screening of Star Wars- I said we can show them the many mysteries that must lurk the corners of our house — she said yes. My intuition when it comes to sensing people is so good that it scares me. It was telling me now that she was the type of the person who would not count the favors you owe her as long as she likes you. I need friends and room mates like that — because I am likable but end up owing plenty of favors.

I was late for the room mate interview that Alexandra had lined up. But thankfully so was Kelsey, the interviewee. I had just put down my bag on the 50 year old leather couch, blowing up a cloud of dust and ancient spirits, when the door bell chimed. “Hey Kelsey”- I greeted with my super smile. “It’s Natalie’ gently corrected our tall slender guest.

“Oh it’s Natalie! She’s the eight o clock .That’s alright -come right in” Alexandra said with the sing-song touch that I was starting to notice in her voice.

“So- this is the living room- we know it needs some work but we are so excited by the potential!’ She gave me a knowing smile which I returned enthusiastically. I scanned the room trying to see it through the eyes of a stranger — it looked it as thoough it were from a novel. It did not belong anywhere close to the 21st century, except a small iPod that was connected to the router that led to box speaker that emitted more dust than sound. The circular space was the meeting point for the paths from the lobby, the kitchen and the living room. It served as a sizeable dining room with a table Alexandra had disqualifiwd immediately from the suite of items that we will be retaining. The plants grew all over the window blocking the light, couch sat lazily on a corner as if dosing off to sleep every now and then.

I stood there getting lost in the sights of the house for the umpteenth time.