My son told me hed given me a cottage in the countryside, but when we arrived I felt the ground slipping beneath me.
My name is Ricardo and Im 78 years old.
I never imagined Id ask strangers for advice, yet here I am, needing your thoughts.
I spent most of my adult life as a single dad. My wife, Emilia, died of cancer when our son Miguel was only ten; hes now 35.
Those years were incredibly hard for both of us, but we got through them together. From then on it was just the two of us against the world. I tried to be both mother and father, working tirelessly so he could have every opportunity possible.
Miguel grew up to be a good kid. Sure, he had his rebellious phases, but overall he was kind, diligent and seemed sensible. He did well in school, earned a partial scholarship to university, and after graduating landed a solid job in finance.
Ive always been very proud of him and watched him become a successful adult. Even after he moved out, we stayed close: regular phone calls and at least one dinner together each week.
Dad, he said, unable to meet my eyes, Im sorry. I know I told you it was a little house, but this will be better for you. Theyll take care of you here.
Take care of me? I dont need anyone looking after me! Im completely independent. Why did you lie?
Dad, please. Finally Miguel looked at me, his gaze pleading.
Youve been forgetting things lately. Im worried about you living alone. This place has excellent facilities and someone will always be nearby if you need help.
Forgetting things? Everyone forgets now and then! I shouted, tears of anger streaming down my face.
Its not true, Miguel. Take me home right now.
Miguel shook his head and delivered the most shocking news of the day:
I cant do that, Dad. I already sold the house.
It felt as if the floor had given way beneath me.
I knew Id agreed to the sale, but I assumed there was still plenty of time. I wanted to meet the new owners, pick a good family, and explain how to look after the old oak in the yard.
So what happened a little over a year ago blindsided me. It was a Tuesday night when Miguel came to my house, visibly excited.
Dad, he said, I have great news! I bought you a little house in the country!
A little house? Miguel, what are you talking about?
Its perfect, Dadquiet, peaceful exactly what you need. Youll love it!
I was taken aback. Moving to a house far away seemed a huge step.
Miguel, you didnt have to do this. Im fine here.
But he persisted:
No, Dad, you deserve it. The place you live now is too big for you alone. Its time for a change. Trust me, itll be wonderful.
I must admit I was skeptical. The house wed called home for more than thirty years was where Miguel grew up, where Emilia and I built our life. Yet my son seemed so enthusiastic, so convinced it was the right move, and I trusted him completely.
After all, we had always been honest with each other.
So, despite my doubts, I agreed to move and sell my home. In the following days I packed my belongings and prepared to leave while Miguel handled most of the arrangements, assuring me everything was planned. His thoughtfulness eased my worries.
At last the day arrived to go to my new residence. As we got into the car, Miguel talked about all the comforts the new place offered. But the farther we drove from the city, the more uneasy I felt.
The scenery grew increasingly bleak. It wasnt the picturesque countryside Id imaginedno rolling green hills or charming vistas. Instead of familiar neighbors and bustling streets, there were endless, empty fields and even an abandoned farm.
The cottages Id once admired, when Emilia was still with us, were cozy, pleasant, and surrounded by nature. This was completely different.
Miguel, I asked, are you sure were heading the right way? This doesnt look like the countryside I pictured.
He insisted we were on the correct path, though he avoided meeting my eyes.
After about an hour we turned onto a long, winding road. At the end stood a large, bland building. My heart stopped when I read the sign: Sunset Haven.
It wasnt a cottage at all. It was a seniorliving facility.
