The weekend arrived, along with the moving day. Jasper was reluctant to move in with Emery, insisting that my presence was more than enough. Emery packed his clothes and books from my room, while I gathered some of my own belongings. I stuffed everything I needed into my suitcase and a bag, unwilling to make trips back and forth between two flats every time I forgot something.

Jasper waved goodbye, looking quite happy as he did so.

“I think he’s happy that we’re leaving,” Emery said as we carried our belongings to the car.

“Yeah, it sure looks that way,” I sighed. “He can enjoy an empty flat now.”

Upon arriving at Emery's flat, he seemed nostalgic. He showed me to my bedroom, and I left my things there. His place was tasteful and simple but somehow warm and cosy. I liked the modern interior, with its black furniture and wooden floors. The walls were a soft white, and there was a white sofa in the living room facing a large TV. I noticed a large colorful blanket laying across the headrest.

The kitchen furniture was simple, wooden and uncluttered. From what I gathered, the flat belonged to Emery. Though I knew he was wealthier than I was, seeing it first hand was a revelation. I felt excited to be staying in such a nice place that I could never afford on my own. 

Just as I finished unpacking, Emery entered my room and sat on the bed. The longer he sat there, watching me, the more self-conscious I felt.

“Do you need anything else?” he asked for the tenth time.

“No, I'm okay,” I replied patiently.

“But if you do, just tell me or take what you need. Make yourself at home.”

“I will. Stop worrying,” I chuckled, finding his adorably concerned expression endearing.

He fell silent for a few moments while I continued putting my clothes away.

“I just want you to feel as comfortable here as you made me,” he stated with determination.

“I know, and I promise I’ll tell you if I need anything. You have my word.” I placed my hand on my chest for emphasis.

He laughed and I felt a sense of pride swell in me. I had recently discovered how much I enjoyed making him laugh and smile. I relished being around him, especially knowing he wanted me nearby instead of his best friend Cornelia who I avoid like a plaque.

I won’t lie, it stirred something deep within me. 

The next few days unfolded much like they had at my place, with one main difference: I had to return to collect more of my things. Jasper invited me over when he was free so we could hang out.

As I walked into the apartment that had been my home for the past few years, a strange feeling. Before I could dwell on it, I spotted a girl's jumper on the sofa. It seemed Jasper had some visitors. 

“Hi,” he greeted me as he walked out of his room, dressed in loose joggers and a simple black t-shirt, of course without socks.

“Anything interesting happen while I was away?” I asked, nodding toward the jumper.

“No, just some friends hanging out,” he replied. “How’s your honeymoon with Emery?”

“Oh, okay.” I was taken aback by his rushed response and change of topic as usually, he would tell me everything. “What do you mean by ‘honeymoon’?”

“You’re like newlyweds. You left home to live with your husband.” Jasper looked at me, amused, a big grin on his face.

“I don’t know about that, kiddo.” I knew he was joking, but it felt more personal, as if he sensed something I hadn’t shared—like he knew more than I was letting on. Emery and I were close friends, even though I often questioned that bond.

“Do you want to watch something before you grab your stuff?” Jasper suggested, picking up the remote.

“Actually, yeah. That sounds good.” I dropped my empty duffel bag on the floor and sat beside him on the sofa, facing the TV.

Jasper chose a series we had been planning to watch together for ages. At one point, he brought us beers, and it felt like old times before drama disrupted our lives.

“I hope you miss me a little,” I teased. “After all, you moved in with me, and now I’m not around all the time.”

“Maybe sometimes?” he laughed. “Just kidding. It was nice having someone around, especially with everything going on when finishing my degree. Well, I passed.”

“No way! It went by so fast. Congrats, man!” I patted him on the shoulder. “We should celebrate. You are an accountant now.”

“Yeah, we're going out today with Danny. You can join us. I know how much you love partying.”

I shot him a glare. I wasn’t particularly fond of it, as I was more of a homebody. But the idea of celebrating Jasper’s achievement did sound tempting.

“Actually, why not. I will go.” 

“Great, take Emery. Guy could have some fun. We are going to the bar and there we can play snooker so I can feel like a king.” 

Not gonna lie, he is good… very good.