Breaking and Entering

I’d only been in possession of the keys for less than 12 hours before I made my first faux pas. My workmate John, thought in his infinite wisdom that it would be a good idea for me to look after his house while he and his family are on holiday. He was taking off on the Friday while his wife and child weren’t leaving until Sunday morning. I’m not really sure why they arranged it like that but it wasn’t exactly my business.
I met his wife on the Saturday for the first time, while she explained the ins and outs of their humble abode – and my living quarters for the next 3 weeks, even though I assured her I won’t be staying everyday. It would however be tempting to use their inner city townhouse for a base on weekends while making the most of the city bars and clubs.
Once the tour and instructions were out of the way, I wished her well and headed out to deal with my numerous tasks and appointments. Life as a 20 something young woman in her prime, included many demands, both in and out of work.

Things were going swimmingly until the next day. It all seemed like a simple plan at the time. My friend Heidi and I went to the Spanish festival on Sunday morning, thoroughly enjoying the tastes and smells of Paella and Churros. After a couple of Sangrias and chats to the thoroughly charming and gorgeous Spanish men, I remembered John’s house. I probably should make sure it hadn’t been broken into or burnt down. Since we weren’t too far away, I thought we could make the most of my new living quarters by watching some DVD’s, cooking something and enjoying a night with Ben and Jerry; otherwise referred to as a party.

So we made our merry way across town with minimum fuss, thanks to the help of Mr. Melway. I parked the car, opened the door with the confidence and flair of a new homeowner and welcome Heidi to my new place.
Heidi went in ahead of me making awestruck noises as she saw the high ceilings, ornate cornices and beautiful art work on the walls. She commented on quite a few things as I followed her down the hall. And then suddenly a woman appeared in the hallway, staring at us in confusion. Since Heidi was in front and she had never seen this woman before, they stared at each other like a deer in headlights. My jaw dropped, it was John’s wife. She stood there dumbfounded, as she had been asleep on the couch and was now suddenly staring down her hallway at a complete stranger who had been loudly commenting on the decor.

I coolly and calmly said, Hi. How are you? as I tried to push my heart back down my throat and into my chest. Heidi just stood there like a beacon with her glowing red face, hiding beneath her polar tech 3000 security blanket. Once wifey calmly explained that she wasn’t leaving until Monday morning, I embarrassingly said I didn’t know and apologised profusely.

It was one of the most awkward moments of my life. I humbly retreated, saying “take care and enjoy the rest of your nap”. I could feel the heat from Heidi's face as we made our way back out, hoping that time would go back with us. I got in the car as quickly as I could and drove off before I let out an explosive cry of embarrassment. In all my confusion I was driving down the wrong way on a one way street, but I was too distraught to care. I couldn’t get over the shock of seeing her, of having brought a complete stranger into her house, despite me having said I’d hardly be at the house. Now it would look like I was going to bring all my friends around, rifle through their things and throw wild parties. I couldn’t begin to imagine the fear and anxiety she must have felt as she was woken by the ramblings of 2 strangers who unexpectedly entered her house.

We drove to the nearest bar. I don’t remember how we got there or where it was but I just know I needed a stiff drink. I hastily ordered us 2 drinks and sat down with my head in my hands. Oh the shame. I relived it a thousand times over and no matter which way we twisted it, it was bad on all levels. We couldn’t even laugh about it. How was I to make this up to them? A question I am still trying to answer.