Chapter Two: Moving In? Seriously?
So, apparently, when your life is a disaster, it’s a family event.
I’m sitting on our squeaky old couch (the one that makes that horrifying pfft sound every time you sit) while my parents and Kalix’s parents are in full “let’s-make-things-official” mode around the dining table.
Dad’s wearing his “I’m serious but trying to stay chill” face, which means this is going to be bad. Mum’s stirring her tea like it’s some kind of magical potion that might fix my impending doom.
“Since Kalix is starting his fourth and Ava is starting her third year at the University,” Dad announces like he’s unveiling the cure for boredom, “and you’ll be in the same university…”
Kalix’s mom jumps in, “We thought it would be practical — and traditional — for you two to move in together.”
I’m blinking so hard I think my eyeballs are about to pop out. “Together? Like… under the same roof? With him?”
Mum nods so calmly you’d think she was talking about making toast. “Yes, dear. It’s a 3-bedroom apartment. Plenty of space.”
My brain is doing backflips, except it’s failing at the landing.
Dad smiles. “It’s just for the university years. Keeps the rent manageable, and you can support each other. It’s... well, it’s what Grandma wanted.”
Oh right. Grandma. The mastermind behind this entire emotional hostage situation.
Kalix’s dad chimes in, “The apartment is near campus, with easy access to everything.”
I try to picture it: me, sharing a fridge, a bathroom, and a living room with him. The boy who once broke my pencil and told me I looked like a monkey’s butt. Again. Seven years ago. Still fresh.
I want to ask if there’s a fire escape I can use as a permanent exit.
Dad claps his hands like it’s a party. “We’ll move you in next weekend. Your mothers will handle the decoration, and we’ll get you settled.”
Mum smiles at me like she’s expecting me to say, “Great! Can’t wait!” I say nothing. Because what’s there to say except HELP ME?
Kalix doesn’t say much. He just smiles that annoying “I’m too cool to care but I’m totally aware of how this is messing with you” smile.
I take a deep breath. Okay, universe, I get it. You win. I’m officially doomed.
But hey, at least it’s a 3-bedroom apartment, so I can hide somewhere. Or plot my escape.
I glance at Kalix and think: If this is a nightmare, I’m already wide awake.
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The Arrangement Algorithm
RomanceThey were enemies on paper. Fiancés by arrangement. And roommates by the cruelest twist of fate. Ava Brown is a Physics major with a sharp tongue, boxing gloves, and a weakness for men with muscles she refuses to admit. Kalix Hayes is a year older...
