Three quick, authoritative knocks follow the intimidating sounds of footsteps reaching the door. As my mind quickly winds into a frenzy, I stomp twice on the wooden floor beneath us, signaling to the Greenbaums that someone has arrived. Within seconds the only sounds that fill my ears are the deep, booming voices outisde my door, and my rapid heartbeat. I see a man peering through the window, cupping his hands around his eyes, as I walk to open the door.
“We are hear to inspect the cottage, now move aside, sir if your life is of any value to you!” I can tell he has said this tens of times, maybe even hundreds. He is quite petite, yet his voice fills the silent space.
He walks over the creaking floorboards, and with each passing second, my heart beat seems to quicken.
What if they’re found? What does that mean for them? What does that mean for me?
After returning from the kitchen where he has checked in cabinets and closet, he comes and sits down, motioning me to join him, as if it were his home.