“How often do you play the drums?”
“As many times as I can. I love drums. I had to add the soundproof, so I won’t disturb neighbors or guests when they visit.” He nods. “I try to drum more during the day when most people are out anyway and bribe them with my pastries.” I smile.
“It’s nice. Where did you get your drum set from?”
“That was a gift from Jordan when I was whining about bringing my set from London.”
“You and Jordan are quite close?” he asks but it sounds more like an observation or confirmation.
“Two peas in a pod,” I say.
His scowl is immediate and just as quickly hidden. “Two peas.” His tight smile seems forced.
There’s a shift from our ease to something tense that I can’t quite place. “Let me show you the linen closet and the back door, but you can’t see the laundry.
“I’m guessing it’s overflowing,” he mocks.
I gasp but know he’s right. I shrug. “Pretty much.” I snicker.
“Should I feel bad for your friend?” he jokes.
“No, I’m going to bake a lemon cake for her and she’s taking some of the patties.” I say, stepping away from the viewed places. “She’s getting well paid.”
He laughs.
“I agree, those patties were amazing.” I wonder if he would like to take some home, but I keep quiet
“Thank you.” I say with a smile
We return to the kitchen, and I plate one of each pie for him.
“Do you mind if I go and read this quickly before I sign it?”
“No, go ahead. I’ll wait right here, enjoying the pastries.”
“Okay. Drinks are in the fridge and glasses are top left cabinet by the fridge.”
He nods, and I brisk walk to the office slash drum room. Turning the desk light on, I start to read.
It all looks pretty straight forward as we’ve discussed. Only, I see a part where he states he’ll pay me five thousand monthly rent. I cross it out and write zero over it.
Having a male presence is all I need to stop feeling like some psycho is going to break in and kill me in my sleep because I’m living alone. I hope Daniel moving in helps to elevate this feeling.
I return to the living room to find him on the sofa with bottled water.
“It looks good, except…” I stress.
“Except?”
“I crossed out the monthly payment, and I won’t sign until you initial it.”
“I can’t just freeload off of you.”
“My brother bought this place for me and my dad pays my utility bills. It won’t feel right taking money from you when you are doing me a favor.”
“Okay, but you must promise to tell me the moment you change your mind.”
I nod and hand the documents to him. He initials the zero and I sign. Our roommate agreement is official.
