Chapter 44

Nicholas spread the architectural plans across the weathered cedar bench in his clearing, weighing down the corners with smooth stones from the beach. Aiko Tanaka had outdone herself. The design captured everything he had tried to articulate about how he wanted to live on this land, then translated it into something both elegant and entirely buildable.

“You said you wanted light and simplicity,” Aiko had explained during their final meeting at her Seattle office. “But also, a connection to the forest and the sound. The house will feel like it grew here, not like it was imposed.”

She had delivered exactly that. The single-story structure would nestle into the clearing’s natural contours, its roofline following the slope of the land. Large windows and skylights were positioned to capture morning light from the east and evening views toward the water. The great room formed the heart of the house, with a kitchen that opened seamlessly into the living area and a cozy fireplace that would anchor winter evenings.

Three bedrooms, each with its own bathroom—more space than Nicholas had ever imagined needing, but Aiko had insisted on designing for the future rather than just immediate needs. “You might have guests,” she had suggested with a knowing smile. “Or your life might change in ways you can’t predict now.”

The master suite was positioned at the house’s western end, with windows facing toward the water and a bathroom that Aiko had described as “a retreat within a retreat.” The two guest bedrooms shared the eastern side, positioned to catch morning light and overlook the memorial garden he planned for Sarah.

Now, six weeks after receiving the final plans, Nicholas was ready to begin construction. He had assembled his team—a smaller version of the group that had built David’s Hood Canal house. Miguel had agreed to another summer in the Pacific Northwest, bringing his expertise with complex residential systems. Klaus had flown in from Austria, intrigued by the challenge of building with Aiko’s vision. Thomas had completed his master craftsman certification and was eager to apply his newly validated skills to a project where traditional techniques would meet contemporary design.