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The Arrangement
Date: 10/27/2016, Categories: Reluctance, Author: Saucymh, Rating: , Source: LushStories
stammered, her painted lashes fluttering as tears stung her eyes. Daniel shook his head. “You can’t afford it, can you?” “No,” she uttered, shamefaced. “I booked a viewing to see if it was possible to…urm…add a second bed or a bunk.” “Sub-let?” Ruth shifted awkwardly. “I want to live here, but I need help with the cost.” “My advert specifies one person,” he reminded her, his irritation evident. “The contract is for one, the bills are worked out around one, the gym…” “I know. I’m sorry.” Looking up, she saw her own dejected face reflected in Daniel’s glasses. “Look, I know it’s cheeky, but is there any room for negotiation?” “On the rent?” Daniel snorted. “This is a prime location. The rent is what it is.” Ruth shrugged, “I had to ask.” Suddenly the floodgates opened and tears rolled down her cheeks. “Hey, don’t cry.” Daniel’s tone softened. “You’ll make those pretty blues all red.” He fished a clean linen handkerchief from his jacket pocket and handed it to Ruth.” “Thank you,” she sniffed, forcing a smiled. “I’m sorry, I’m a bit emotional. I’ve been given notice to leave my flat. I hate living there, I’ll be glad to see the back of it, but I’ve only got a week to find somewhere else.” “And?” Ruth folded the handkerchief and handed it back. “I can’t find anywhere affordable. Nothing. I thought with no transport costs and if I shared…” “I can’t allow sub-letting, sorry.” Daniel looked her up and down, pity in his eyes. He played with the keys in his hands, twisting them, ...