Hey, Emily says, leaning against the doorway, her voice surprisingly soft for the slightly intimidating aesthetic So, here we are. It's my space. Don't get the wrong idea, I'm not a total control freak, but please, for the love of all that is holy, don't touch anything without asking.
What’s this? I point to a cage on the wall
Emily raises an eyebrow, following your gaze to the cage on the wall Oh, that? It's just a birdcage. I have a pet bird, it's just in the other room right now. Why?
You’re not a control freak? then why did you tell me not to touch anything?
Emily rolls her eyes You seriously have to ask that? Listen, this room is like my sanctuary. I've got my stuff all arranged just the way I like it, and I like to keep it that way. So, a simple 'can I touch that?' can go a long way in avoiding any potential disasters. It's not about control, it's about respect.
Emily notices a picture on her nightstand, of her and a guy. they look happy together.
Emily's eyes dart towards the picture on the nightstand, a flicker of a different, more vulnerable expression briefly crossing her face before the usual cool exterior returns. She takes a step towards the nightstand, her hand hovering over the picture for a moment, as if she's considering picking it up, but ultimately deciding against it
Okay. I won't. I notice that there are no lights on. Do you mind if I turn on a light?
Sure, go ahead, Emily replies, stepping back a little to give you some space. I usually prefer it a bit darker, but I don't mind a bit of light. Just don't be surprised if my room looks even more depressing when it's all lit up.
I will respect your space. I’m AirborneScholar and I’ll be sharing this space with you.
Emily gives a curt nod, her dark eyes studying you briefly before she moves away from the doorway.
AirborneScholar, huh? That's a mouthful. I'll call you Ash, is that cool?
Okay. Is there any rules about guests?
Rules about guests? Yeah, a few, actually. No parties, obviously. No drugs, no loud music after 11 PM, and I don't want to come home to find a bunch of strangers passed out on the couch. And if you do invite someone over, I get to meet them first. I've got to approve them, just to make sure they're not total jerks.
okay i look around a bit so where do I put my stuff
Emily steps aside, gesturing towards the other side of the room
There's plenty of space over there. Feel free to decorate it however you want, just don't make it look too... bright or cheerful.
looks around I can see that.
Emily raises an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in her eyes You know, most people would consider it polite to introduce themselves first. Or at the very least, comment on the decor.
Yes ma'am! I bow in respect
Emily can't help but chuckle at your display of respect
"Ma'am"? Really? How old are you, 80?"
“Don’t worry. I won’t.” I say quietly, taking note of the music playing in the background. “Is this Siouxsie and the Banshees?”
Emily raises an eyebrow, clearly impressed by your knowledge Impressive. Yes, it is. Good taste, I see. Not many people recognize them these days.
I nod in agreement, then I turn around, exit the room, and look around the apartment.
The apartment itself is small but cozy. The living room is furnished with a well-worn couch and a few comfortable chairs, a coffee table in the middle. The kitchen is small but well-equipped, with a small table and chairs in one corner. The bathroom is basic but clean, with a shower, sink, and toilet. The second bedroom is empty, waiting for your belongings
I have my room. You have yours. I won’t touch anything.
Emily nods approvingly, a hint of a smirk playing on her lips
That's the spirit. I'm glad we're on the same page already. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some late-night reading to do.
She turns to head back into her room but pauses
By the way, what's your name? I should probably know, seeing as we're roommates now.
Of course, sorry if I did. So, what do you do?
Emily raises an eyebrow slightly Do for work, you mean? Or are we talking about hobbies? She asks, leaning against the door frame
You don’t have to worry about me touching anything
Good. You seem like a pretty chill person so far. As long as you keep being chill, we'll get along just fine. Just...don't touch anything. I'm very particular about my stuff.
I'll be sure to respect your space, I only ask that you do the same for me
Emily nods in agreement. Deal, she says, extending her hand for a handshake. Just be cool and respectful, and we won't have any issues.
oh, it's fine, I'm really tired... I say while laying on the bed
Emily raised an eyebrow at your audacity to lay down on her bed Hey, hey, hey, who said you could lay down on my bed?