Page 94 of Until the Ink Dries

“The apartment is 1,150 square feet total, so you have plenty of space. As we enter, you’ll notice the open-concept layout. The living room flows right into the dining area and kitchen, which is equipped with stainless steel appliances. The in-unit washer and dryer are located right here,” she said, opening a door to reveal top of the line appliances. “Each unit has central air conditioning, and smart home features, including a programmable thermostat.

“Now, the open concept makes this the perfect entertainment space for a dinner party, family dinners, or a girl’s night in. The large windows provide excellent natural light, not to mention, you have a balcony with a beautiful view.”

She motioned for us to take a look around the space. We walked deeper into the apartment, taking in everything she described. It was beautiful. The marble countertops in the kitchen were spotless and so were the appliances. Not even a trace of fingerprints were left behind.

We ventured out onto the large, covered balcony.

“You and Benny can get busy right here,” Shirah jested. “Just don’t fall over.”

“I’m leaving your ass at the store next time.”

She laughed as she followed me back inside.

“What do you think?” Briana asked.

“I love it. Can we see the bedrooms?”

“Of course! Right this way.”

We followed her down the hall to the right of the living room where she pushed open a door.

“Now, the master bedroom is on this side with its own en-suite bathroom and a massive walk-in closet. The bathroom includes a standalone shower and a large soaker tub for those nights when you just want to relax. The second bedroom is just across on the other side of the living room. It’s ideal for a guest room or home office, and has access to the guest bathroom. This is perfect for a roommate set up in case you two are moving together.”

“Oh no,” I said, shaking my head. “I see enough of her already.”

“Bitch,” Shirah said, mushing my head.

Bianca laughed. “You two sound just like me and my best friend. She’s more like a sister.”

“That would be us,” I agreed.

“Don’t let her fool you, Bianca,” Shirah said. “She neglects me from time to time. We aren’t gonna talk about that, though.”

I rolled my eyes. “Anyway! This is beautiful. What kind of amenities do you have here?”

“I’m glad you asked! This building has fantastic amenities! Residents can enjoy access to our 24-hour fitness center, rooftop pool and lounge area, package receiving service, and underground parking. This unit is currently available at $1,850 per month with a 12-month lease. We’re also offering a special this month—one month free if you sign within the next week. The security deposit is equal to one month’s rent. Utilities are not included, but water and trash typically run about eighty-five dollars per month.”

“You sold me when I walked in,” I said with a giggle.

Bianca smiled. “What bout you, bestie?”

Shirah looked around and nodded. “It’s a great space. Prime location. And Charlie can have her own room.”

“Oh, you have a daughter?” Bianca asked.

“No. My boyfriend has a little girl.”

“Well, we also have a playground in the courtyard.”

Shirah tapped my arm. “See. Perfect.”

Again, I rolled my eyes, causing Bianca to laugh. “Let’s head back to the office. Since you were already approved, we can get started on all the paperwork.”

We followed her out of the unit. I was happy to have found something. Even if I had to get a blow up mattress until I got my furniture, I was done screwing my man in places that didn’t have mine or his name on the lease.

After filling out the paperwork, Shirah and I went to grab something to eat from Scottie’s and a drink from Sweet Sips before heading back to her shop so she could open for the day.

While she was behind the register doing something on the computer, I took my time looking around the store. My girl had amazing fashion sense and was always sending me something to try every time she got new pieces. Now that I was back home, I could roam the store and try on whatever I wanted.

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