Kate was overcome with emotion, with Caroline's gesture but resolutely hated the house and the organ. As not to belittle Caroline's desire to please her, she lovingly held Caroline and whispered, "Happiness is living with the love of my life, you and our children." She explained the wisdom of getting someone to access the most important systems in the house, the electricity, the furnace and the plumbing. It all seemed to Kate a money pit. Caroline stood back and for the first time, considered the actual state of the place. Which to her sense of taste was not up to snuff. Caroline's mind reeled at the site as she wondered why this place would be something she would even consider. Then those black eyes melted her heart and for a moment it all made sense. Must make sure Kate is happy with me our home and our family. This was Caroline's internal marching orders.
Kate nimbly suggested the home a mile away from the High street in Harrogate with four bedroom and a huge owner's suite as well as a study, a gourmet kitchen and a beautiful view of a pond on the neighboring property. Caroline had no reservations about the home but really wanted the organ.
The house they agreed on was more like the home Kate had while married to Richard than the house in Harrogate the new home, their home with its white-washed brick and horse shoe drive-way, providing the posh exterior of Caroline and John's home with its stately windows and double front door. The bedrooms were designed for long stays, with the previous owners having a large family and lots of smooching friends. The dining room and kitchen eating areas were huge, enough for eight comfortably and twelve in a pinch. The living room was gigantic the size of one of the sitting rooms in Buckingham Palace, or so it seemed to Kate. "We can have an entire Girl Guide troop in here," Kate remarked when they toured the house. Caroline thought this house was more elegant and stately than her other home and at a bargain since the owners were desperate to sell as they were immigrating to Canada.
Caroline and Kate discussed the whole affair with Caroline saying "My goal is the sell the Harrogate house with its furnishings so we can make a new start, I designed and decorated that house, but want this house to be a collaboration between both of us and our tastes. There is a Nigerian furniture store we can get things that reflect both of us." Kate wriggled her nose and retorted "This is Yorkshire" Caroline was confused by Kate remark and replied "I've heard that before." They both giggled and locked hands as they made their way from the estate agents office.
Kate smiled saying let's get something to eat, we're famished referring to the baby and herself. Caroline ask if they should go down the pub or to their favorite Italian spot. Kate smiled at Italian restaurant suggestion as they made their way to the parking lot and heading into the place eyeing their favorite table. Caroline ordered a large orange juice, what about the wine selection? Kate wondered. Darling, you can't have wine, and I will not drink the vino until we both can, Caroline replied. Caroline, was only ever going to work at being thoughtful and sensitive to Kate's condition, having firmly committed herself to Kate's health and the baby's well being during these last weeks of pregnancy.
Caroline smiled devilishly and remarked. "The living room is perfect for your surprise." What? Kate wondered aloud not realizing she had spoken. We are going to decorate our home together, that was the plan, Kate retorted. Caroline smiling said "Yes of course, no change to our plan, just that I want to spoil you." I hope you don't think that the living room is in need of a piano or organ. Shocked, Caroline looked embarrassed and sad. "Well, you do love music and there is plenty of space, not that I'm confirming anything. I was under the notion that playing was your first love, darling and I want you to be happy with me our family and your passions.