Change of Deed

"Finny, your housing tax period is ending. Would you like me to extend it for you?"

I watched as the post-owl flutter away with a soft swish of wings. Before long, the reply came.

"Nah. Take the housing deed and certify the house to your name."

I did as I was told. A few days later, the name on the old Arcum Iris townhouse plaque became mine instead of Finny's. I wrote back to let her know that everything went well.

"Finny, we can upgrade houses now. Can I upgrade the house?"

Time passed, and the reply came.

"Yeah. It's yours now."

I had gotten used to life without Finny around. But when I read those simple words, I felt sad somehow. So I climbed onto the roof, and stood where I used to hide and wait for her to come home.