Chapter 2

Ashley’s POV

20 years.

It had been 20 years since I left this town. 20 years since I left the neighborhood, and now, I’m back. Unfortunately, for good. I’ll be moving back here for good. I’m just hoping that my old neighborhood is still here—however, that’s really unlikely, with all the modernization that’s happening.

I’m sure someone had probably renovated or made something new in place of the old one.

The car slowly came to a halt in front of a modern looking house where my childhood house once stood. If I remember correctly, there are two houses here before—one that belongs to my childhood best friend that unfortunately, moved out and I can’t even locate him anymore.

I remember an apple tree in between the houses and an old Sycamore in the back—however, all I see now is a huge house. The tree and both houses are all gone.

So I was right, they really did renovated it. It’s a relatively nice neighborhood back then and I’m sure it’s still as good as before.

I reached for my phone from my bag and checked the address again, hoping that I could still somewhat be lost and then when I get to the right place I can still see those two houses. But yep, I’m in the right place. Sadly.

“So I guess this is it for me huh?” A small smile crept into my face. “At least I’m going to be here for the rest of my life.” I grumbled under my breath and opened the door. Just like Phil—one of my best friend said, there’s a sign in front that says looking for a house mate.

I don’t know how Philip found this but I am so damn thankful.

It’s 4 in the afternoon as I stood in front of the door, buzzing the doorbell with cold sweat. I really did want to settle down in the same neighborhood from before so I am a bit nervous with all the “what ifs” in my mind.

I rang the doorbell again, quietly peeking into the glass window beside me when I felt a tap on my shoulder making me gasp in surprise.

“Sorry for startling you.” The man said while looking at me. He probably got a proper office job with how he’s dressed up in a white button-up and slacks. “Can I help you? This is my house.”

“Oh.” I said, dumbfounded. Of course. “Um, I am Ashley Johanssen. I have already messaged you about that signage.” I said pointing to the signage by the white mailbox. “I was wondering if I could check out the place.”

“That signage huh—“The guy said and rubbed his temples before sighing. “Yeah, sure. Come on in.” He said nonchalantly and I stepped to the side as he opens the door with his keys. “I hope you don’t mind the mess. I’m not really a clean freak and the cleaners come only twice a week.” He said and showed me inside after he flipped the switches open and yep—he’s not kidding when he said it’s a mess.

“It’s a state.” I deadpanned and he shrugged as I eyed the underwear on top of the potted plants. Poor plant.

“I know right.” He said with a laugh and snatched the underwear only to chuck it somewhere—I don’t even wanna go deeper into the house to see if it’s worse. I know already. “Anyways, if this doesn’t work out for you, I’m gonna have to say—“

“No!” I suddenly said, shaking my head. “It’s okay. I’m just… not used to it. Can you show me around?” I asked, minding my steps.

The guy shrugged, yet again. He’s a bit fond of that. “Yeah sure, no problem. Anyway, here—is the kitchen.” He said and led me to another room just a few steps away from the living room where we first saw. Admittedly, the house looks really great. The living room is spacious and the kitchen is surprisingly nice.

“Not bad.” I said with an impressed nod. At least it’s clean here.

“I don’t really cook so I don’t use this room often.” He said as he lean by the counter as I look around. It’s a modern kitchen that is equipped with all these commodities. Too bad he doesn’t use this as often because if it was me, this would be my favorite place.

“There’s bedrooms in this house and it’s all upstairs—sadly only my room had an en suite bathroom so if you decide you want to live here, you have to use the bathroom downstairs.”

“That’s fine with me.” I said with a small smile. “I like the place. I could also clean for you since I only have morning work.”

“Really? Well that’s great.” He said and motioned me to follow him. “Where do you work?”

“At Creative Minds Kindergarten just a three blocks away. I’m a teacher.” I said and followed him up the stairs. “I believe I haven’t got your name.” I said as he opens the door to a relatively nice and furnished guest room.

“Oh yeah, sorry about that. I’m Trent. Trent Easton. You can just call me Trent.” He said extending his hand to a handshake, I took it into mine with a smile. “I work at PC Brewery.”

“I see. I heard this is where they have their main office. Are you a marketing staff or something like that?” I asked and looked around the room, opening the windows before opening the closet. This really isn’t a bad deal. This is quite nice.

“Something like that. I usually just sit around and do paper works. Nothing exciting.” He said and crossed his arms. “Do you like it? You can just chuck the furniture in the storage downstairs if you’re planning on using yours.”

“It’s okay, I might have to change the bedside table and the sheets but this is fantastic Trent.” I smiled. “I’m glad I found this vacancy. I’m really looking forward to being your house mate—or house mate? That is if we come to an agreement.”

“Well… I’m glad you like it. Are we on the same page here?”

“Yes, I do hope so.” I giggled and he smiled at me—oh wait. There… I must’ve not noticed. He is handsome. No, scratch that. He is gorgeous with that face of his. I had to swallow and look away to compose myself. “Do I sign a lease?”

“Nah, I don’t do that shit. Let’s not get into a big fight and we’re cool.” He said and I laughed.

“I assure you, I’m one peaceful dude. So how much do I owe you a month?” I asked.

“Um, let’s see… if you clean and cook for me, hmmm, then…” He hummed and looked up thoughtfully. “You owe me a hundred a month.”

“A hundred thousand?!”

“No, like a hundred. One hundred dollars.” He said and my jaw dropped.

“That’s too low! How about electricity and water?”

“That’s it. A hundred for electricity and water and living here. If you could make that garden by the back grow then I could give you a discount.” Trent said sounding like it’s nothing to him. Why the hell is this guy even looking for a house mate if he isn’t in a dire financial situation?

“You’re absolutely insane. I can’t—no, this isn’t fair for you Trent. Let me pay the proper amount, with a place this neat, I feel like I’m cheating you out.” I insisted ‘because that prize is just crazy. That doesn’t even cover a whole month of groceries—not even a week!

Trent just sighed and looked at me before leaning into the doorway. “Look, Ashley, its fine. I’m not in any bad money situation right now.” He said with a click of his tongue and I just looked at him with an inclined head.

Aye, we got a weird one alright.