As silently as she could, so as not to bother his sleep, Cindy cleaned up the kitchen. Afterwards, she figured out how to go about her laundry. When she’s done, she sat on the couch. There are a couple of pillows on it. She inhaled deeply, savoring her good situation. She grinned as she positioned the pillows on both ends. She has a place to sleep, and oh, it’s comfortable. She looked forward to a really good night sleep. She turned to look at Elian. The man is sleeping on his side and she took the time to stare at him. It won’t be an understatement to say he’s her hero. She previously did an essay about hero worship for a class homework. She could understand the concept better now.

She went near the door to turn off the light and made her way back to the couch. There was a lamp near his bed, but she didn’t think it would be appropriate to turn it on. Maybe he doesn’t want it. She lay on her back and stared at the ceiling. She closed her eyes and tried to sleep, but it wouldn’t come. Why? She groaned as she sat up. She should be able to sleep now, right? Comfortably. No fear of bad things that could happen. She could lower her guard a bit. She exhaled as she mulled things over. In a while, she found herself crying. Alright, just this once. She told herself. She silently cried, releasing her resentments in the last few years, especially in the last few months. Maybe it’s because her situation is better now, she could finally feel bad about her previous situation. It was truly hard. She only persisted. She didn’t know how much longer she could’ve persisted. Maybe a few more days. But she didn’t need to. Not now. She’s okay now. She comforted herself with that knowledge. Slowly pulled herself together. She had to try her best tomorrow. She feels tomorrow will be a very good day.

Elian opened his eyes as he heard a low noise. He frowned as he listened. It took a while before he figured it was Cindy. The girl was crying. He admired her resolute character. She was crying so silently. He closed his eyes again, not wanting to bother her, or embarrass her. It took a while before he heard her sniff as she stopped crying. She exhaled deeply a couple of times as well. As silently as she could, she blew her nose on a handkerchief she hastily took from her new drawer. Elian almost smiled at her actions. She’s considerate. It would seem she has a good personality. Otherwise, he might be forced to throw her out as well. He frowned. Would he do that? It would be much kinder to teach her and correct her behavior than to throw her out. He took a deep breath of his own. Well, it didn’t seem like he’ll have a problem with her.

The next morning, Elian woke up first. He boiled a few eggs. He would have to buy something later. As he prepared to go out, he decided to wake her up. She must’ve exhausted herself the last few days, it’s understandable that it’s her first night to get proper rest. She looked peaceful as he tapped her arm.

“Hmm?” She started as she opens her eyes and surveyed the room. Right, new place. She sat up when she saw Elian standing on the other side of the couch.

“Yes?” Horrified, she realized she must’ve slept in. He’s already dressed and prepared to go out. She only realized now how attractive he looks. Maybe it’s the hero worship working on her.

“I’ll be leaving first.” He stated as he took out his wallet. He pulled two twenties.

“Use this when you go out.” He offered them to her. Cindy stared at it.

She shook her head, “Oh, no. I still have a few bills. I can manage.” She really couldn’t accept any more kindness from this man. She smiled at him.

Elian hesitated for a bit, before he insisted.

“Well, take it. Just in case.”

Cindy felt like it would be really rude to reject him, though.

“Thank you. I’ll use it only if needed.” She decided she’ll leave the bills on top of her drawer. She’s not gonna use the money.

“Deal.” Elian smiled at her reply. He nodded before walking away. Cindy watched as he exited the door.

She immediately made her bed, well, couch. She checked the kitchen and found the boiled eggs. She hesitated for a minute before grabbing coffee and a pack of biscuits. She should make herself presentable today. She wore her best clothes after another shower.

She’s not shy when it comes to applying for odd jobs. She picked up her IDs and coin purse before going out. She slipped the key into her necklace. It felt a little heavy on her neck, but she liked it. She hid it under her blouse.

Before the morning ended, she was hired as a part-time waitress at a small restaurant. Minimum wage. They do like to hire students because of lower rates. She could live with it, though. When she asked if she could start that day, the owner looked surprised but he humored her. It was only six hours a day, anyway. Four days a week. And he could also assess her skills. Cindy was thrilled. For the rest of the morning, she watched how business is done from a corner. She was introduced to the others and she greeted them politely. She did look better today. She had a bright smile on her face and it was contagious.

After working today, the owner and the others did like her. She’s very amicable with the customers. She got good tips, too.

“Well, here you are. Pay will be weekly starting from tomorrow’s work.”

“Thank you very much.” Cindy accepted the envelope with glee. Maybe she could buy something today for the house.

She went to a grocery store after work. It’s nearly seven. She wonders what time Elian normally comes home. She figured yesterday was a one-time thing. He did say he’s normally out. She picked out food items. Some detergent and soap. A new toothbrush. Basic toiletries.

What can she cook for dinner? She picked out a small package of fish meat and some vegetables. Seasonings. Maybe stew. She grabbed some bread, too. Including the tips, she was able to afford her purchases. Some change. It was a really good day.