An hour later, Marion was on her way home, to list her house for sale, pack what she was bringing with her, and dispose of the rest. She would work her two-week notice at the same time.
Meanwhile, Ida parked her car in Hogan’s driveway and walked up to the door, still unsure if this was necessary. She was happy with her roommates, but if this wasn’t taken care of, she could possibly lose a couple. To prevent that, they must also be happy.
She opened the door and walked in. Facing her was a desk with an empty chair. He can’t be far away, she thought, because the door is unlocked. She’d just sit in one of these chairs facing the desk and wait.
“Hello. Can I help you?”
Ida turned to her right. “Ms Blackett? I was expecting to see Mr. Hogan.”
Bertie laughed. “Most people are when they come here. He just went across to the house to check on something… should be back in a minute or two.”
“You were here before me, but it’s still okay if I wait?”
“Of course. I just help him with research. Can I get you a coffee?”
“Thank you,” Ida said. “That’s something you’re good at. Are you enjoying retirement?”
Before Bertie could answer, the door opened and Harry walked in. Bertie introduced them and went to get Ida a coffee while Harry took his seat. “How can I help you Ms Pinsent?”
“My roommates think there’s a ghost in the house. I think all old houses creak and groan as they settle over time,” Ida said, taking the coffee mug Bertie handed her.
“How old is the house?” Harry asked.
“Definitely over a hundred. Our parents bought it when my brother and I were very young.”
“Are you talking about Black’s Farm?” Bertie asked.
“That’s old,” Harry said. “Is it in good shape?”
“My brother George moved in several years after our parents passed. He did a lot of work, repairs and upgrades, but It still has an old-fashioned charm.”
“He no longer lives there?” Harry asked.
Ida shook her head. “He planned to turn it into a country guest house. With six bedrooms, each having an ensuite and walk-in closet, it might have worked. Unfortunately, he passed away six months ago. He was a widower, his two sons had no interest in such an enterprise, so he left it to me. I have four roommates, with one more to arrive in a couple of weeks.”
“So you live there, with four others, retirees paying rent, I presume.”
“Retirees – yes, but no rent. We each contribute the same monthly amount to cover household expenses. Like George, I had an inheritance from my parents.” She smiled. “I don’t need extra money, Mr. Hogan. I’d rather have compatible company.”
“Makes sense.” Harry rubbed his chin. “How long was the place empty before you moved in?”
“About five months. I hired a cleaning crew to go through the place and freshen everything up first. Does that matter?”
