Page 96 of The Renter
Friday, August 12th
“Your prayers have been answered. I’m moving out,” I say, standing in my parents’ living room, excited to share the news.
“That’s great, honey! When?” Mom asks.
“Now,” I say in a light laugh. “I got an apartment in the city.”
“And where’s this apartment?” Dad asks.
“River North.”
“River North, huh? Fancy,” Dad chides, although I think there is a hint of pride in his voice too. “Your business must be doing well.”
“It’s doing well.” I hesitate, knowing the next part of this story might not be as well received. I don’t want to lie about it. “And, uh, Adam, who I’ve been seeing.” I pause, searching for the right words. “He’s paying for it.” As I say it, I begin to ramble, trying to justify it. “It’s like an investment in me. I have to be in the city to keep growing my business.”
There’s a moment of silence before my dad’s voice breaks it. “This guy’s paying your rent?”
Mom chimes in, her tone concerned. “I can’t say I’m excited about a guy paying your rent, Dani.”
I understand their worries. “We’ve thought it through. He will pay the entire lease, even if we break up. I won’t end up back here, don’t worry.”
Dad sighs. “You’re an adult, but … I did google him after our last conversation. You didn’t tell us he’s nearly twenty years older than you.”
“I know. But it happened, and I’m the happiest I’ve ever been.”
“Your relationship—it raises eyebrows. None of them are good for you.”
My parents exchange a look. “We want what’s best for you, Dani,” Mom says, falling into her familiar role of handler, trying to downplay the harshness of his words. “The age gap, the money … These things can complicate a relationship.”
“I get it. I’m still building my own life with his help. Everything feels right.” They don’t say anything. “I promise.” I throw my arms up in the air. “Look, I know it’s unconventional, but Adam respects my independence. This isn’t about control; it’s about support.”
“We want you to be happy and safe.” Mom’s voice is soft but firm. “And independent.”
“I am, Mom.”
“Be smart. Make sure you have an emergency fund so you can leave on your own terms,” she says. I don’t want to entertain the idea that Adam and I won’t work out. But I understand I cannot become dependent on him.
After an awkward silence, Dad says, “It would be nice to meet the guy.”
Meeting the parents. Another step into our relationship. The only guy that has ever met my dad was Sorin.What a shit show that was.
I take a deep breath, thinking about how Adam and I are planning on staying at the cottage one last time together before his lease ends. “How about we come over on the Saturday before my birthday?”
“Perfect.” Mom smiles.
“The big two-six,” Dad jokes.
“I can’t wait for you to meet him.” I smile big.
By the time I finish packing my things, I sense a slight shift in their attitude. They’re still cautious, but there’s an underlying feeling of trust and support. I leave my parents’ house feeling a renewed sense of confidence, happy to have overcome my first big professional failure, and excited about my life.
82
Wednesday, August 24th
“Peanut,” I praise, looking around Dani’s apartment for the first time. I’m immediately struck by how beautifully she’s put it all together. “No angry lights.” I laugh, remembering her distaste for fluorescent lighting. The floor-to-ceiling windows provide incredible natural light. She giggles, and I don’t think I’ll ever get over how much I love that sound.
Like her, the apartment is unique, with thoughtful touches everywhere, from the art on the walls to the chic furniture. I feel a surge of pride as I look around.
