Stepping out of the taxi, only to find myself stepping into a puddle, I looked up at the sky. Grey clouds loomed above, huddling together while releasing many tears downwards upon this land named Belgium. The building in front of me was three stories high and was pale looking, with a tinge of yellowy-orange. Green paint on window frames chipped in places and the door had cracks running through the wood.

This place is old.

I was interrupted by the taxi man handing me my bags.

"Thank you very much, sir. How much would that be, sorry"

The taxi man smiled at me cheekily and gave me a discount for my thoughts.

"Oh, well, it's just I'm nervous about this new place. It's my fourth foster home in three years. If this one doesn't work out, I don't know what I'll do."

The taxi man apologised for asking and left without me paying a pound. At least I got a discount, like that will get me far.

Brushing a stray piece of hair and tucking it behind my ear, I stepped forward, right foot then left foot, and stopped directly in front of the door. I looked like a wreck. My hair falling out of its once tidy braid. Skirt and blouse hadn't been ironed. Bags circled my eyes and my fear was written all over me. Quickly, I straighten my clothes, swept away the stray hairs and straighten up my posture. Pulling my shoulders back, straightening my spine and painting what I hope was a look of excitement and hope on my face, before lifting up a frail hand and tapping sharply on the door.

Seconds passed.

Nothing.

I was just about to try another knock when sudden the door swung open and I was nose to nose with a tall, narrow, tight lipped, hawked eyed lady prune.

With a shock, I stumbled back a step before gathering myself again.

Quick! Say something! Screamed my conscience.

"G-goodmorning, Ma'am. My name is Valentine and are you Mrs-"

"Mrs Munro. Yes." I am surprised that such a sharp snap came out of the women, and she wasn't finished yet. "Now, before you make yourself at home, there are regulations you Must...follow." With that, she turns around and slowly walked away while talking. "You must wipe your feet before you come in. Bring any mud, dirt and whatever else you manage to bring back with you into the house, must be cleaned immediately by YOU and YOU alone."

I quickly wiped my feet and followed suit, leaving my bag inside by the door after shutting it quietly.

The house was immaculate. Not one spec of dust was to be seen. Not one fingerprint on the glass door to the china box and not one out-of-place object lay around. All was aligned perfectly and orderly and all was tidy. I felt like I could touch anything, in fear of this surreal atmosphere shattering away, ruining this perfect image.

Calming, soft blues and yellows splashed the walls. Greens and browns touched the furniture. Cream and white melted into the carpets and tablecloth. Things of contrast fitted in harmony with one another, giving off a homey vibe.

The space felt free and welcoming, but when I bring my eyes back to the boney, old tree standing in front of me, the room melts away, along with the warmth that it brought.

"Dinner will be at six in the evening every night. If you are not there at exactly six or sooner, you may find leftovers in the fridge, but I wouldn't count on it."

Nodding and answering with a simple, 'Understood Ma'am.' we proceeded up stairs.

For me, the third floor is forbidden, but I didn't see any reason in going up there in the first place.

My room matched the theme of the house, with its yellows and blues, and looked comfortable. It would soon become my sanctuary in this house.

A wooden desk and chair was situated in the far corner of the room, door which leads to a bathroom, stood on the other end and a large bed -perhaps made for two- lay facing the windows which looked out upon the street.

"This is absolutely lovely Ma'am! I couldn't thank you enough for what you have done!" I praised, turning towards the rigid stick.

It may be the light, but did her eyes just soften which compassion for a brief second?

The thought came too soon. "And don't you forget it. Now you can go and fetch your bag and unpacked. I expect this room to be as pristine as it is today."

"Of course Ma'am!" And with that, Mrs Munro left and I was alone, to myself.