Chapter 1: new roommate

In the busy evening street in the city, I clung to my beige trench coat as I made my way to the apartment building. Glancing on my watch, I checked the time.

"10 pm," I read aloud as I strolled toward the elevator, pressing the button for the highest floor. I continued walking until I reached my apartment door and inserted the key on the locked knob, twisting it open after.

My body relaxed as I entered the apartment, closing the door behind me. I could think of nothing else but the welcoming warmth of my bed but I was interrupted when someone spoke.

"Jean? Is that you? Come sit with me darling," Nicole, my sister-in-law requested. She is a black woman with a head of thick, spring-like curls, and dark brown eyes that seemed to see right through you.

I complied without hesitation and with a vague idea of what she wanted to discuss.

"Our new roommate moved in today, she's now asleep so you won't be able to meet her tonight," I nodded, thoughts still fixated on sleep.

I was told that the new roommate is an old friend of hers and my brother's. She happens to be in need of a place to stay, which led her to Nic.

I was reluctant at first, which sparked a disagreement. "I understand the pain we've been through, but we need to let people in every once in a while," she reasoned before I gave in and agreed.

"You'll find her charming," she said with a knowing smile. I could sense the direction this conversation was taking.

However, given that she will be covering a third of the monthly expenses, I concluded that it was futile to find a reason to refuse to let her stay. I don't intend to get to know the woman anyway.

After catching up with Nicole, I pushed the door and walked into my room. The darkness enveloped me with comfort, a contrast to the bright lights at my company and office. With swift movement, I shed my work attire and slipped into my sleepwear.

I nestled into the soft blankets and fluffy pillows, sinking into the comfort of my bed. I sighed in contentment as my muscles relaxed, ready for sleep to take over my exhausted body.