Trouble in Paradise by Three Way

The next day, I went to the address Pete sent me. It felt like the excitement of opening a mystery box.

He had been very secretive about the details and hadn't even mentioned the style of the place, but I guessed it would be minimalistic, like most apartments.

As the housekeeper led me inside, the morning sun cast shadows on the wooden floor. It highlighted its natural texture. It turned out to have just the kind of warm, urban vibe I liked. The appliances were all in place, so I only needed to buy some soft furnishings to make it move-in ready.

I had grown accustomed to making video calls every time I talked to Pete. Putting everything else aside, seeing his fairly handsome face always improved my mood.

I told Pete roughly what I wanted to buy, and he agreed without hesitation. He insisted on setting up a shared payment feature on an app for me.

I didn't resist. Spending a little money meant nothing to him, but refusing might make him insecure. Relying on him, even just a little bit, made him happier.

He looked a bit tired but still smiled. "I'm so glad you like it. I bought it in a hurry, so I was worried you wouldn't like the finished apartment."

I was happy and fully immersed in the immense joy of starting a new life. Besides... being pampered felt wonderful! At least, life with Pete was going to be interesting. "Can I kiss you when I get there?"

eyes, helpless against his playful expression. "Then hurry up

person in the video grinned from ear to ear and nodded firmly. A

housekeeper to arrange for a cleaning crew. Five cleaners worked for four

cab to the local

From the moment he

but just

be the Shelmans' privileged son. He would be an unremarkable young man

long hair fall over my shoulders. I knew what

woman dressed up for the one she loved. I hoped he would be pleased

blue sky was covered in thick, dark clouds which blocked the

as if a

brewing.