But this time, we did not go alone.

Richard and Mrs. Alvarez came with us, carrying boxes and suitcases.

I stood on the front steps, holding the brass key in my hand.

My hand did not shake as I inserted it into the lock.

The door opened easily, letting in the fresh autumn air.

The dusty, dark furniture was gone, cleared out by the movers.

We began the renovations the following Monday.

For three months, the townhouse was filled with the sounds of hammers and drills.

We tore down the heavy velvet drapes that kept the light out.

We painted the walls in soft creams and warm yellows.

The cold marble fireplace in the living room was replaced with a warm brick hearth.

We turned the second and third floors into eight private suites.

Each suite had its own bathroom, a small kitchenette, and comfortable beds.

In the basement, we built a playroom for the children, filled with books and toys.

Olivia and Grace helped choose the paint colors for the playroom.

Lily insisted on a large, soft rug shaped like a green leaf.