The early stages of my new home’s construction have begun, and every day brings fresh excitement. I’ve been visiting the site more often than I probably need to, under the guise of “checking on things.” The truth is, my frequent visits have less to do with the house and more to do with the charming new neighbour I’ve met—Harrison.
Harrison is in his early 20s, but you wouldn’t guess it by the way he carries himself. He owns his own home, a beautiful property just down the street from where my new house is being built. He’s tall, with sandy blonde hair that’s always slightly tousled, as if he’s just come from the beach. His smile is warm and easy, the kind that instantly puts you at ease. And his eyes—well, let’s just say they have a way of making you feel like you’re the only person in the room.
“Checking on the progress again, Clara?” Harrison’s voice pulled me from my thoughts as I stood by the site one afternoon.
I turned, trying not to let my heart skip a beat as he approached. “Yes, just making sure everything is on track,” I replied, knowing full well that the builders had it all under control.
He smiled, leaning casually against the fence. “You know, they’re doing a great job. You’ll be moving in before you know it.”
“I hope so,” I said, smiling back. “It’s exciting to see it all coming together.”
Harrison nodded, his eyes scanning the construction site. “It’s going to be a beautiful home. You must be really proud.”
“I am,” I admitted, feeling a warmth that had nothing to do with the summer sun. “It’s a fresh start for me and the kids.”
He glanced at me then, his expression softening. “You deserve it, Clara. You’ve been through a lot.”
His words touched me more than I expected. There was something so genuine about Harrison, something that made me feel seen, in a way I hadn’t felt in a long time. I found myself looking forward to these brief conversations more and more.
Later that week, I visited the site again, this time to meet with the luxury custom home builders on the Mornington Peninsula who were overseeing the construction. We discussed some of the finer details of the design, and I couldn’t help but glance over to Harrison’s house, hoping to catch a glimpse of him.
As the weeks have gone by, I’ve found more and more reasons to visit the site. Whether it’s to see the progress or to “consult” with the experts who are bringing my vision to life, I’m always hoping for a chance to see Harrison. It’s been a long time since I’ve felt this way about anyone, and I can’t help but wonder if maybe, just maybe, this new home will bring more than just a fresh start for me and my children.
I’ve been working closely with the home designers as well, trying to make sure that every aspect of the house reflects the fresh start I’m hoping for. They’ve been patient, listening to my ideas and offering suggestions that make the process feel collaborative and exciting.
Building this house is a journey, one that’s filled with new beginnings, new friendships, and, if I’m honest with myself, perhaps even the possibility of something more. Every visit to the site brings us closer to moving in, but it also brings me closer to Harrison. And while I’m not sure where this will lead, I’m excited to find out.
