Want to support CHYOA?
Disable your Ad Blocker! Thanks :)

Chapter 14

Who do you visit first?

Bill and Olivia

Considering your options, you realize with a start that you hadn't yet congratulated the newly-wedded couple of their marriage. Despite the ceremony having happened a couple of days ago, you knew that Olivia's large Mediterranean family had orchestrated a multi-day celebration, the last of which had just finished yesterday.

Decided that later was better than never, you head out the door and make for apartment 2A - Bill and Olivia's humble home.

You arrive in a matter of minutes, quickly standing before the door while thinking up a game plan. You're busy telling yourself that you can't exactly barge into the neighbor's apartment when you remember you conversation with Holly earlier. Grinning like an idiot, you knock on the door once, and then twice.

Before long, you hear the shuffling of feet shortly followed by the sounds of someone battling with a lock. You wait an additional second or two before the door gently opens, revealing Bill.

Due to your similar schedules, you hadn't seen Bill all that much recently, being more prone to run into his at-the-time fiancee. Standing before you, it was evident that Bill bulked up a little for his wedding. No doubt wanting to look his best for his new wife. His blonde hair was still disheveled and his sense of fashion casual at best.

He recognized you with a smile, opening the door fully. "Hey John! It's been a while."

"Hey Bill! Congratz on the wedding!"

You give him your hand, an offer he takes with a firm handshake.

"Is your wife home?" You ask, putting a little of emphasis on the new terminology. Picking it up instantly, Bill gives a light but honest chuckle.

"Yeah, she's inside; exhausted from the past few days. You should've seen her - she collapsed the moment we arrived back." You spot a glimmer in his eyes as he remembers the night. It's easy to tell that Bill has nothing but fond memories of his wedding days. "What can I do for you?"

"Actually," you begin, putting your plan into action. "Holly and I have been talking and there's been a change in ownership. While Holly retains her position from before, I am now the owner of the entire apartment complex."

"Wow!" Bill exclaims, genuinely shocked by the development. "Sorry, I had no idea - with the wedding and all. How recent is this?"

"No need to worry," you wave, dismissing his concerns. "Nothing's going to change. You'll still pay Holly your rent and I'm not planning on changing any rules. I am however currently surveying the entire property and need to do a small tour of your apartment."

"Of course!" Bill agrees, stepping aside like you'd been hoping he would. "No trouble at all. Please, come on in!"

Following his lead, you pretend to look around the entryway, the motion instead serving as a means to hide the look of shock on your face. Despite everything that's happened, it's still shocking to see your new abilities at work.

"How did this happen?" your neighbor asks as he enters the apartment's family room. "This is the living room" he quickly adds, gesturing to the space around.

"Let's just say it's a little birthday gift." You provide as explanation, hoping that the newlywed wouldn't look too much into it. Stepping into the room, you spot Olivia sitting on a couch beyond, nose buried in a book. She's wearing a pair of short-shorts that showcases her beautifully tanned skin and a modest tee that covers the bulk of her chest. Despite this, her curves are all on display and she's practically glowing.

"Olivia! Congratz on the wedding!" You call out before she has the chance to say anything. You immediately go in for a hug, Olivia getting up to accept it gracefully.

"John is now our landlord." her husband provides as means of explaining why you're in their apartment. "He's surveying our apartment in order to familiarize himself with it."

"Is that so?" Olivia asks as she pulls away. You can tell she's confused, but makes nothing of it. "Well, congratulations. And thank you; it's a shame you couldn't make the wedding. It was beautiful."

"I saw the pictures" you reply, glancing at the pair. A moment passes without anyone saying anything, the three of you not really knowing where to take the conversation next. You shuffling on your feet, thinking fast.

"Well, I won't be taking up much on your time. I just wanted to make sure you two were aware of the situation. Oh, and to let you know that I also own..."

What do you now own?

More fun
Want to support CHYOA?
Disable your Ad Blocker! Thanks :)