A One Night Stand With My Boss

"I think it's safer to look for a house with a guy around," Erica said, setting down her fork and leaning forward earnestly. "Remember your first time renting? That shady broker still gives me the creeps." Camila thought back to her first rental experience. She was inexperienced and scanned the ads posted on the local community board.

She called the number listed and met a burly man. He showed her two apartments, neither of which was suitable. Just as she was about to leave, he blocked her, demanding a $30 broker's fee. "No pay, no leave," he said.

She couldn't overpower him or outpace him. After some haggling, she begrudgingly handed over $15 to get away.

"I wanted to bring Dave, but he had to work," Erica explained, glancing at Camila.

"Thank you," Camila nodded, grasping Erica's hand, feeling deeply touched. Erica felt almost like family.

"We're too close to be polite!" Erica laughed.

They continued their meal, enjoying a fondue that filled the room with its inviting aroma, mingling with their laughter and momentarily making Camila forget about that intimidating man. Erica stayed over.

The next day.

After freshening up, it was already 9:15 AM. They had planned to meet John at 9:30 AM in front of the real estate agency. They rushed out the door without breakfast.

higher rent. The

real estate agency entrance, waving at

to keep you waiting," Camila

as well, and the area looks really nice," John

course, it's a high-end neighborhood,"

some water," said

tiring work, especially with Fairmount still hot in October.

to a convenience store across the

Camila nodded.

of them entered the store and grabbed a few bottles of water. As John was about to pay, Camila stopped him. "No way, you're here to help. It doesn't make sense for

have the habit of

unable to stand the back-and-forth any longer, laughed and said, "It's just a few dollars. Let's pay and go. We're

apologetically to the