An Unbelievable Bargain

The two girls thought going with an apartment might be a cheap solution, but they were both quickly dismayed to find most apartments in the Madison area were very pricey.

"Well, let's look at houses" suggested Jamie. "Just a small house would be fine. I'm not afraid to share a bedroom with you."

As they looked through the ads, one ad in particular struck them.

"Old Gothic house, two bedrooms, front portico, reception room, living room, dining room, two baths, kitchen, and a converted wine cellar. Just four blocks from Madison College. All utilities paid. Fully furnished. Rent this beauty today for just $150 per month."

"What?" they both said in amazement at almost the same time.

"This has to be a misprint" Laurel thought out loud.

"Did the landlord leave a number with the ad?" Jamie was curious. It sounded too good to be true, but she had to find out.

Laurel searched the ad further by clicking on it. "Yeah, they left a number to call."

"Good!" Jamie pulled out her phone. "Give me the number."

Jamie dialed the number Laurel gave her. It rang three times before someone picked up.

"Hello?" the voice on the other end greeted.

"Yes, my name is Jamie Smyzer. I was calling to inquire about the house you have listed on Craig's List. Is it true you only want $150 a month for it?"

"Yes, my dear. That's right. I rent that house to mostly college kids, but it would also be suitable for a couple, or a small family" the voice replied.

"Well, my friend and I were accepted at Madison College, and we were looking for a cheap place to live, mostly because we can't afford that much. It seemed to us like the ad you placed was too good to be true. Have you had many inquiries about the place?"

"You are the first to call about the place. As far as I'm concerned, it's yours if you want it. I'd be glad to take the ad down, and hold it for you." The voice paused for a moment. "You'll need a security deposit, of course, and the first month's rent. That would be $300 total. If it's a problem for you, we can work something out."

"It's so nice to know that you're willing to work with us, but I think we can come up with the money you need."

"Well, in case you're wrong, that offer still stands. You sound like a very nice and responsible young lady. By the way, your roommate. Would that be a male or a female?"

"Female. She's my best friend Laurel. We would be sharing the house together."

"Good! Good!" the voice exclaimed. "Not that I have any reservations about renting the place to a couple, mind you. So would you like to see the place before you rent it?"

"Certainly!" Jamie exclaimed. "Well bring the money for the first month and the security deposit with us. I'm sure we're going to take it. All I need is your name, and where to meet you."

"The house id located at 3601 Star Ocean Drive. My name is Ned Pepper. Can we meet tomorrow, say around one in the afternoon?"

"That sounds good, Mr Pepper. We'll see you then!" Jamie hit end, and turned to Laurel. "We've got ourselves a house! He only wants $300 down, and $150 a month, just like the ad said. He's willing to work with us if we have any problems raising the money."

"Well it shouldn't be a problem. We both have our graduation money" said Laurel. "I'm as excited about this as you are." She reached out and wrapped her arms around Jamie. This time it was her who initiated the kiss. The two girls melted into each other's arms.

"What was that for?" Jamie asked, all starry eyed.

"For being the best friend anyone could ever have" replied Laurel.

Meanwhile on the other end of the completed call, Ned Pepper could only hope the house would like the new tenants he chose for it. "You better be happy with them" he said out loud as he looked around the reception room of the old house. "They're nice girls from the sound of things. They should be no trouble at all. Please don't give them any trouble."

"I will do as I wish" said a sinister, deep voice from out of nowhere. "And you will do as I wish. But they do sound perfect. It's been a while since I've had two women at the same time."

Pepper fell to his knees. "Please, I beg you. Don't do anything evil!"