Gracie:You will be happy to know I have left bar work forever. So, if you were planning to go to the bar, you won’t find me. I’m a little sad because I’m leaving so many good memories behind, like…us.
Marc:I know change can be scary, but you are ready for more. You’re smart, warm, and kind. As an employee, you’re dedicated. Except maybe cleaning up, but I’m partially to blame.
Gracie:LOL that is definitely not normal behavior for me. A one off…well, unless you want a repeat.
Marc:Don’t tempt me…
Gracie:I have to get going, even though I just want to keep talking to you. Boo :(
Marc:I’m always here. A text or call and I’m yours.
The warm air of New York hits me straight in the face as I hang my head out of the window like a dog. As I look around, the biggest grin stretches across my cheeks. I’m in awe of the buildings and atmosphere.
The driver is glancing at me in the side-view mirror with a pinched expression.
I sit back down to explain. “I have never been to New York.”
He nods. “Where are you from?”
“Chicago.”
“Nice, and you’re on vacation?” he asks nonchalantly.
“No. I’m moving to New York for a traineeship.”
“Congratulations,” he says with a smile.
I can’t help but beam. I’m proud of myself for getting here because I never thought this day would happen. And I’m not going to waste a second of it.
“Thanks. I’m excited.”
He nods again but doesn’t say anything. I’m grateful for the silence so I don’t have to make small talk and go back to absorbing everything on the drive.
I prop myself back out the window until the driver tells me we’ve arrived.
I practically jump out of the car, with my two cases.
“You traveled light.” He comments.
“Yeah, I didn’t want to bring too much.” I swallow hard, not wanting to tell him I don’t own a lot of belongings because I was always careful with my money.
He grumbles something I can’t understand before driving off. I shrug off the awkward exchange, too busy digesting the fact I’m standing on the sidewalk of my new rental.
Home sweet home, I breathe.
The brown brick building with black accents is better looking in person than in the photos that James emailed me. I skip up the three steps, pulling my cases with me, and get my keys out to open the door.
Holy shit.
My mouth drops open as I take in the place. I owe James big time. It’s a bit older than most in the area, but I love the character the age of the place gives. I gave James a strict budget based on my salary, and he definitely got me the best place my money could afford.
I run my hand on the hallway table and drop my keys, leaving my cases in the entryway as I walk through slowly, taking it all in. Moving through to the back, the kitchen and living room are spacious, and there is a cute gray couch already in place, which is perfect to curl up on after a long day at work.
I pull my phone out and video call Ava, knowing she will be waiting for me to give her an update.
“Hello. You’re there?” She smiles into the camera.
“Hey. I’m here, and oh my God, you have to see this place.”