I never imagined I would experience love once more after Elise was gone. Grief settled heavily in my chest, and for months, I moved through life in a fog, unable to picture the idea of opening up to someone new. My five-year-old daughter, Tessa, was the one who kept me grounded. She relied on me to push through, so I pushed through—even if I felt only half-alive. It was almost by coincidence that I crossed paths with Laura.
She was completely different from Elise. While my late wife was quiet and reflective, Laura radiated warmth, always friendly and often humming a tune. Still, there was a softness about them that captivated me. Even though I had my doubts about Tessa’s reaction, she surprised me by connecting with Laura right away. On that first day at the park, Tessa felt a bit unsure, but Laura approached her with a warmth that made it seem like they were old friends. She knelt down next to Tessa in the sandbox, genuinely admiring the sandcastle Tessa had built. Tessa gazed at me with bright eyes, almost as if she was saying, Daddy, she’s alright.
Tessa was my cheerful companion on many of our outings during the year we dated. During those months, I caught sight of a new kind of happiness. Two years after Elise passed away, I tied the knot with Laura in a cozy backyard ceremony. I truly felt that Tessa and I were ready to embrace life once more.
The New Home
After the wedding, we settled into Laura’s old family home—a charming Victorian that she had inherited from her grandparents. Nestled along a tree-lined street, it featured lofty ceilings, intricate molding, and a spacious attic. Tessa’s eyes lit up as she moved from room to room, filled with joy.
“Welcome to your new bedroom, Tessa,” Laura said, as she opened the door to reveal a cozy space featuring a charming bay window. “How about we paint it your favorite color?””
Tessa offered a timid smile. “What do you think about having pink walls and rainbow curtains?”“
Laura chuckled, looking over at me as if to seek my agreement. “It’s going to be pink walls and rainbow curtains,” she assured, giving Tessa’s shoulder a gentle pat. It was a perfect moment, a reassuring sign that we were creating a new family life—one that was taking gentle steps forward.
A Sudden Shift
About three weeks into our new setup, I got a call from my boss. A major project was reaching a critical moment, and they required my presence in Chicago for a week. This was my first business trip since the wedding, and it was also the first time Tessa would be on her own with Laura for more than a day. Tessa gave a little pout when I shared the news with her.
“Daddy, do you really have to leave?”“She asked, her voice shaking.” “I’m really going to miss you.”
I knelt down next to her. “I’ll miss you as well, but Laura will look after you just fine.” “You both can enjoy yourselves while I’m away.”
Laura gave a comforting smile. “We’re going to have so much fun, Tessa.” How about we have a movie night, give your room a fresh coat of paint, and whip up some cookies together? Sound good?“
Tessa’s eyes lit up. “Chocolate chip?””
Laura gave a nod. “More chocolate chips, please.”
Everything appeared to be okay. I departed with a light heart, confident that Tessa and Laura were building a lovely connection. However, things seldom unfold as we expect.
A Mysterious Whisper
A week later, I found myself back sooner than I had planned, disembarking from the plane right at noon. I was really looking forward to surprising them—perhaps we could grab some takeout for dinner and have a nice catch-up. As soon as I stepped through the front door, Tessa launched herself into my arms, pressing her face into my coat.
“Dad!”“She cried, her small body trembling.”
I gently ran my fingers through her hair, feeling a sense of worry wash over me. “Tessa, sweetheart, what’s the matter?”“
She looked down the hall with a hint of worry, where Laura had disappeared from view. She leaned in and softly said, “Daddy, new mom acts differently when you’re not here.”
Her words sent a shiver through me. “What do you mean, sweetheart?”“
“She won’t let me have ice cream, even when I’m good,” Tessa said, her voice shaking. “She had me clean my room by myself, and… then she went up to the attic.” She secures the door with a click. She tells me I can’t come in. “She gets really upset if I bring it up,” Tessa said, her voice trembling as tears welled up in her eyes. “Sometimes, Daddy, I hear strange noises up there.” It’s really frightening.
I pressed my lips together, feeling my heart twist inside me. “Hush now, Tessa. It’s alright.” “Daddy’s here now.”
She held onto me tightly, new tears glistening in her eyes. “I—I told her I was scared, but she just said I was whining and needed to be quiet.”
A whirlwind of feelings hit me—confusion, worry, and a sense of letdown. What could have caused Laura to behave so harshly? This was the same woman who had captivated Tessa at the park with her soothing words. Tessa wasn’t just imagining this. She was overly sincere, filled with fear. “I appreciate you sharing that with me,” I said softly, pressing a kiss to the crown of her head. “Can I speak with her, please?””
She nodded and wrapped her arms around me tightly before finally releasing her hold.
A Night Full of Tension
Laura came down the stairs, her bright smile lighting up the room. “Oh, you’re back already!”“She exclaimed, leaning in for a kiss.” I allowed her to proceed, but my thoughts were a whirlwind of uncertainty. Tessa and I shared a few friendly words before she quietly exited the room, leaving me alone with Laura in an uncomfortable silence.
“How did Tessa do while I was away?”“I asked, making an effort to keep it light.”
Laura tilted her head to the side. “She’s doing well.” She could be a little clingy now and then, but I made sure to keep her occupied.
I crossed my arms. “I heard she’s afraid of the attic.” Make sure to keep it locked up and don’t let her get close to it.
Laura’s expression changed for a moment, but she bounced back swiftly. “Oh, that.” The attic is a dusty old space filled with boxes and possibly a few pests lurking around. I secure it for her protection. I really didn’t want her going through all that random stuff. She has a curious nature.
I made a face of discontent. “She mentioned that you seem stricter than normal.” She’s been feeling down.
Laura let out a breath, her lips pressed together. “Andrew… I’m getting used to this whole mother figure role.” I may have put some rules in place. However, it’s not anything serious. Honestly, I feel like Tessa is just a bit uneasy with the new routine.
Even though what Tessa said made sense, I couldn’t shake the feeling that her fear was still haunting me. I let it go for the moment, not wanting to kick off any drama on my first night back.
Sounds coming from the attic
Time went by. Tessa’s anxiety lingered on. Every time Laura slipped away into the attic, Tessa would creep a little closer to me, her eyes wide with curiosity. “Daddy,” she whispered softly, “there’s some strange thumping noises coming from up there.” It’s like a giant hamster scurrying about.
“Maybe she’s just moving boxes,” I said, but a sense of unease lingered within me. What could be the reason Laura has the door locked?
Late one night, I got up to grab a glass of water. The hallway was silent, but suddenly a soft thud from above made my heart race. I quietly made my way to the attic stairs. Sure enough, I noticed a soft glow coming from under the attic door. The handle was secured from the inside. My heart raced. What was Laura up to at 2 a.m.? in a sealed attic?
There were sounds: a scraping noise, a dull clang, and the echo of footsteps. I thought about knocking, but the fear of crossing a line held me back. Eventually, I made my way back to bed. The following morning, Laura seemed completely at ease, greeting me with a warm smile as she offered me a cup of coffee. I realized I was in search of answers, but I wasn’t quite sure how to find them.
Tessa’s Struggle
That’s when everything fell apart. Tessa completely lost it at bedtime, sobbing that she didn’t want to sleep in her own room if “new mommy is mad.” I discovered her in tears, hiding under the covers. “What’s going on, sweetheart?”“I inquired softly.