My first night in New Jersey was an emotional one. I cried all through the night, feeling like life had been so unfair to me.
Sarah had arranged the guest room for me to sleep in. It was a comfortable, welcoming space. I freshened up and came to the small but well-furnished sitting room to have my dinner. Sarah was really doing well for herself.
After dinner, she had to go to bed early because of an appointment the next day.
"Good night, Ella," she said. "I'll be going to bed now, I have an appointment in the morning. Feel free to stay as long as you want, and I have Netflix if you want to entertain yourself. Just lock up and switch off everything before going to bed, okay?"
"Alright, thank you so much," I replied.
She went to her room, leaving me alone in the sitting room. It was a two-bedroom apartment, and she lived here all by herself. I wondered why she rented a two-bedroom when she was staying alone, but it wasn't my place to question her choices.
I decided to watch the latest movie on Netflix. It was actually a love story, and I found myself getting lost in it. The movie brought back sweet and bitter memories of my mate. I loved him deeply, and I couldn't understand what had changed between us.
As the movie continued, my emotions overwhelmed me, and tears started flowing uncontrollably. I cried so hard that I eventually fell asleep on the sofa, with the movie still playing softly in the background.
I woke up to the sound of an alarm clock. I realized that it must have been Sarah's alarm to wake up for her appointment. I hurriedly switched off the TV, not wanting to disturb her.
I didn't know if Sarah would be upset to find me sleeping on the sofa, so I decided to tidy up the living room as best as I could and ran back to my room. she had done a lot for me already and the least I could do was respect her space.
The next morning, I woke up feeling a bit weak and tired. I didn't sleep well last night. I quickly made my bed, straightening the pillows and folding the blanket. I wanted the room to be as neat as possible just as how it was before I entered.
As I tiptoed to the kitchen to make some coffee, I overheard Sarah on a call in her bedroom. She sounded quite cheerful, discussing work-related matters. I sighed in relief, realizing she wasn't upset about me sleeping on the couch.
While my coffee brewed, I decided to prepare a simple breakfast for both of us as a way of saying thank you. I found some eggs, bread, and vegetables in the fridge and started making omelettes.
A little later, Sarah came out of her room, still in her pyjamas, and greeted me with a warm smile. "Good morning, Ella. Did you sleep well?"
I smiled back, feeling a bit sorry for using her kitchen without her consent. "Yes, thank you. I hope I didn't disturb you with my movie?."
Sarah chuckled, "Not at all. I appreciate your consideration. It's just nice to have some company around."
As we sat down to eat breakfast together, Sarah asked, "So, Ella, what are your plans for today? Do you want me to show you around town?"
I appreciated her offer but felt that I needed some time alone to process everything. "Thank you, Sarah. I think I'd like to take it easy today, maybe explore the neighborhood a bit on my own."
She nodded understandingly. "Of course, take all the time you need. And remember, my home is your home, so feel free to make yourself comfortable."
I thanked her again, grateful for her kindness. My first night in New Jersey had been emotional, but I was willing to take it a day at a time.
After breakfast, Sarah left for her appointment looking as sharp as ever in her red palazzo pants and matching blazer. Her outfit screams class, and her expensive-looking handbag completes the look.
As she made her way out, she turned to me with a word of advice. "Ella, I'm off for my appointment. Please take care of the house, and be cautious around Cole. He's a player, and you wouldn't want unnecessary complications."
I nodded, grateful for her advice. "Alright, I'll keep that in mind. Have a good appointment, Sarah."
She said her goodbyes, and stepped out the door, leaving me alone in the apartment. Everywhere seemed so quiet, and I found myself at a loss for what to do next.
Feeling a bit frustrated and helpless, I plopped down on the living room sofa and let out a frustrated sigh. "Ahhh!" I exclaimed, releasing some of my inner emotions that had been building inside me.
I needed to figure out how to start up my days while Sarah was at work, and more importantly.
As I was contemplating what to do next, the doorbell rang, startling me. I wasn't expecting anyone. Cautiously, I moved toward the door and peered through the peephole. It was Cole, the handsome neighbor from next door.
Reluctantly, I opened the door, and Cole stood there, grinning. "Good morning, Ella," he greeted, his voice warm and charming.
"Morning," I replied, a bit reserved.
"I heard you shout earlier," he said, looking concerned. "Is everything okay?"
I sighed, realizing I had been quite loud with my outburst. "I'm sorry if I disturbed you. It's just that I'm new here, and everything feels so overwhelming."
Cole loosened up, and he stepped closer. "Moving to a new place can be tough, especially when you don't know anyone. If you ever need help or someone to talk to, I'm right next door."
His kindness surprised me. "Thank you, Cole. I appreciate that."
He smiled, looking all sexy. "No problem. Enjoy your day, Ella." With that, he turned and headed back to his apartment.
I watched him go, wondering why Sarah was skeptical about him. Despite my initial reservations and Sarah's warning, I couldn't help b
ut be intrigued by Cole. Maybe, just maybe, we can be good friends.