THE RESEARCH PROJECT

UNLOCK

Nervously my right leg bounced as the chauffeur pulled into the drive of my new home. I gasped in awe at the exterior. The bright yellow lights that lined the home accentuated its beauty. I'd been particular when asked what type of home I wanted. A restored Charles Du Bois-designed home was a must. I wanted an old build home that encompassed the Californian architecture I adored. The stone-cladding doors and low roofs reminded me of the Flintstones. Something about the desert like mid-century modern homes felt familiar to me. They appeared cosy and distant, taking me back to my family's Spanish holidays as a child. Also, I trusted the foundation and strength of an old build versus one newly constructed one.

The restoration and remodelling of the home had been careful and thoughtful, highlighting the mid-century modern style of the home. Against the purplish orange sky, the 1960s home stood out proudly amongst the tall trees. Giddy and excited, I squealed like a child. I never imagined I'd have the chance to live in such a home. Be it temporary, I couldn't wait. To calm my nerves, I took in several deep breaths.

From my right, giggles sounded. They were bemused by my reaction. I wasn't bothered.

Living in such places may have been standard for some, but to me, it was a dream. Four familiar faces appeared at the front door with bright wide smiles that made me slightly uncomfortable.

Why are they so happy?

"Anytime today, Ms Aleia." Clara, the producer, said playfully. Shyly I nodded, allowing her to lead the way. The first to greet me was Shawn Meyer, the lead researcher. We'd had several meetings leading up to this day. "Welcome home, Aleia." He said, shaking my hand. I nodded. Mikaya Levy, another researcher, welcomed me, handing over a chilled glass of sparkling rose. Marcus Green and Tony Hernandez greeted me last. I looked around them wondering where the rest of the team was. Unashamedly, I was looking for a particular face. A face I didn't recognise, a face that brought me great discomfort. "The rest of the team are currently working, but they pass their good wishes and welcome." Mikaya informed. She didn't explain further. Maybe she didn't understand the entire question in my eyes.

"Let's head inside." Clara said.

    The air around was suffocating. Since boarding my flight from Heathrow, the air had felt limited. 12 hours later, the air was becoming more and more scarce. Amazed, my finger traced along the wood of the front door. "This is a solid white oak chevron door. White oak is constant throughout the home, from the kitchen to the exposed beams. Here's the key." The estate agent explained. Hesitantly, I picked the key from her hands. After letting out a shaky breath, I unlocked the door.

Immediately incense of amber, cinnamon and vanilla filled my being. It was my favourite home scent. The fact that they'd shipped my favourite oil diffusers warmed my heart. The team promised to do everything in their power to make me comfortable. The home was pleasant and inviting, instantly making me feel secure. Looking up, I saw high-vaulted ceilings that gave the open space home character and air. Before entering further, I removed my shoes. Everyone silently followed suit.

"There's coat and shoe storage just to your right. Anyway, the double-sided fireplace is one of the many original features of the home. It separates the living room from the dining room. I know you wanted doors, but this is a rare design for such homes in California, especially Du Bois designs. The likelihood of your bedroom smelling like food is very slim." The estate agent informed me with a wink. I wasn't a fan of open-floor planned homes. There was nothing I hated more than my bedroom smelling like my dinner.

I followed her, enjoying the coolness of the stained concrete floors seeping through my thick white crew socks. The pocketed doors provided an indoor/outdoor flow revealing a beautifully curated garden with a pool, an outdoor kitchen with a pergola and a fire pit. I stopped before she could take me down the hall to the bedrooms. "I'd rather wait." I said softly. Understanding the estate agent smiled at me.