Apartment hunting

“I can’t believe our first year in college is already coming to an end.” Mandy says sitting down across from you in the cafeteria booth.

“I know,” you reply, “I guess we can’t count on getting assigned as roommates again the fall.”

“Yeah, that would be kinda sad actually.” Mandy says softly. She takes a sip of her chocolate milkshake.

“Well don’t worry, we’ve got all summer to enjoy ourselves right?” Trish interjects loudly. As she slides into the booth next to Mandy. “And if you guys do want to be roomies again next year,” she whispers conspiratorially, “I know of a few ways we could make sure that happens.”

You look at Mandy, raising an eyebrow slightly in question.

“Well,” you finally say after a long pause, “maybe we could look into getting an apartment?”

“Yes! Finally some sense!” Trish cheers loudly, causing several heads to turn in your direction. She grabs the last fry off of Mandy’s plate and pops it into her mouth. “I can help you guys with that too,” she says between bites, wiping the fry grease off her fingers on a napkin. “My brother-in-law is a real estate agent and can get you some great deals.”

Mandy looks at you nervously, waiting for your reaction. You smile reassuringly and reach across the table to hold her hand in yours. “Yeah, that sounds like a plan,” you say with more confidence than you actually feel. But hey, what’s the worst that could happen?

“Okay!” Mandy says cheerfully, trying to match Trish’s enthusiasm. “I can’t wait to start looking!”

You have an excited conversation about potential apartments and what they should look for as you finish your food.