Two friends rented a cottage for a quiet week.
The host’s dad came to check the boiler. His mum brought towels. Next day, both returned with more jobs and advice.
The friends asked the young host whether his parents visited every guest so often.
He looked surprised by the question….
Anna and Beth booked a cottage at the edge of a village. The pictures showed a garden, a little kitchen and a comfortable sofa.
The listing promised peace.
Their host, Jamie, met them with the key.
I’m only ten minutes away if you need anything, he said.
They said they would probably manage.
An hour later, a man knocked.
Jamie’s dad. Just checking the boiler.
He checked it. He also checked a window catch, a cupboard hinge and whether they knew the right road to the shops.
Before he left, he asked what time they were having dinner.
Beth said they had not decided.
Don’t leave it too late, he said. Jamie does that.
The next morning, a woman arrived with fresh towels.
Jamie’s mum. I thought these might be nicer.
The old towels had not been used yet.
She changed them anyway. Then she asked whether the beds were comfortable, the kitchen was warm enough and either guest knew how to make a proper meal.
Anna said they did.
Lovely. I’ll bring you a casserole tomorrow.
On Tuesday, Jamie’s dad arrived with a screwdriver. There was a small click in the bathroom door.
Beth had not heard it.
You will now, he said.
By Wednesday, they had received more towels, two bags of apples and advice about going out without coats.
Jamie came to ask whether everything was all right.
Anna said the cottage was lovely. His parents had been very kind.
Beth asked whether there was a polite way to get a whole day without a visit.
Jamie looked genuinely puzzled.
They keep finding little things that need checking, Anna explained.
And bringing food, said Beth.
And asking when we’ll be home.
Jamie leaned against the kitchen counter.
They do that here?
Every day.
He took out his phone.
I’ll speak to them.
Beth thanked him.
We didn’t want to be rude. Is this something you offer all your guests?
Jamie shook his head.
Then why is it happening to us?
He looked around the tidy kitchen, the fresh towels and the covered dish on the stove.
I rented this place so they’d stop doing it at mine.
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