Nina invited her friends to a housewarming party and asked everyone to bring a chair.
At the door, she handed out drinks. Then she asked the guests to carry their chairs next door.
Her friend Beth stopped on the pavement.
She wanted to know which house the party was actually in….
Nina’s invitation promised food, music and a look at her new house.
At the bottom, she added: PLEASE BRING A CHAIR.
Beth rang to ask whether she meant a folding one.
Anything you can carry comfortably.
Nina had lived beside Beth for six years. Her new house was the empty one next door, so Beth thought the move should be easy.
On Saturday, she arrived with a chair from her dining room.
Nina opened the door of the old house.
You’re early. Have a drink.
Behind her, six other guests stood holding chairs.
Where shall I put this? Beth asked.
I’ll show you in a minute.
Nina gave everyone a glass of lemonade. She asked two friends to lift the little kitchen table.
The food needs somewhere to go, she said.
That sounded fair.
Then she led everyone out of the front door, along the pavement and into the new house.
The chairs went round the kitchen table.
There were sandwiches, music and a cheerful room full of people.
Beth said it was a lovely party.
Nina thanked her.
Halfway through the afternoon, Beth noticed that every chair belonged to a guest.
Even the small table had come from Nina’s old kitchen.
Where’s your furniture?
Still next door.
Are the movers coming late?
I haven’t booked any.
Beth looked at the table, then at the chairs.
Nina brought out a cake.
After tea, perhaps a few of you could help with the books. Only if you’re going that way.
Everyone was going that way. Their cars were outside the old house.
By six, the books, lamps and kitchen stools had moved too.
Beth put on her coat.
Very clever. When are you moving the big things?
Nina handed her another invitation.
Beth read the date.
What kind of party is this one?
A sofa-warming. Bring a strong friend.
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