"It’s just a dust devil," the father said uncertainly.
"It’s the ghost," the twins said, slowly turning in unison, eyes unfocused, and talking in their creepy shared voice.
The miniature cyclone outside swirled furiously, picking up the mailbox, a chair, and finally the couple's car. Dottie and the buyers all screamed as the car was smashed down on the sidewalk. For good measure, another bolt of lightning came down, striking the car and immediately turning it into an inferno.
"Still want to buy this house?" I asked, smiling toothily.
"Honey, I think we should maybe think about another place." The wife's skin was pasty from fear.
"Yes, I think that would be best," the man said, swallowing visibly.
"The contract has a clause that you have to pay if you’re backing out," the twins said.
"I will pay it," I told the couple.
"Fine," Dottie said, tearing up the contract. The couple wandered outside in shock. In the distance, sirens wailed.
"Way to ruin my first sale!" Dottie yelled to the house, shaking her fist.
"You scared away our buyer," Morticia said, crossing her arms.
"The ghost did," I said mildly. "Shall we go to my estate so I can write you a check?"
79
Penny
Idrove back to Harrogate feeling not necessarily relieved but definitely better. Yes, I had kept Garrett’s family from being dragged through the tabloid mud, but it wasn’t going to make anything right with Garrett. He hated me. I would never see him again.
I drove back to the Victorian house. There was a scorch mark on the sidewalk and a SOLD sign out front.
"Fuck," I said. I went up to the door, hands trembling. My key still worked, at least.
I slowly packed up my bags. I didn’t have much. A lifetime of moving around and living on a twin bed in a room with two other people in Manhattan hadn’t left me with much.
This house was the only place that had ever felt like home. Sure, it was a little weird and too big and was a little—okay a lot—dirty, but I loved this house! I didn’t even know where I was going to go. I wanted to go apologize to Garrett, but I figured I shouldn’t bother him. He probably hated me and never wanted to see me again.
I texted the twins.
Penny:I have my stuff out of the house. I guess you sold it?
Morticia:Yes, it has been sold.
Penny:Where do you want me to leave the hearse?
Lilith:Can you come pick us up? We’re at the Svenssons'.
Penny:The Svenssons'? I can’t go there.
Morticia:You can stay in the car. We'll wait for you outside.
But when I pulled up in front of the huge estate, the twins weren't waiting outside. I texted them. I didn’t want to sit in front of the Svenssons’ house any longer than was necessary.
Someone knocked on the window of the hearse, making my heart jump. Was it Garrett? Nope.
"Sebastian."
"Hi, Penny."
