"I mean it's not like I've been on many of these set-ups. The main thing is to find someone who gets me, you know?

" His words had me internally rolling my eyes., He said he wanted to find someone who got him, heh? What he was after was someone also into this whole gig economy hustle, looking to team up and make even more money. Everyone's moaning about the toughness of the job market, but if you were smart, there were plenty of ways to make a killing without even dipping into one's savings.

"So, are you looking to hire me as your pretend boyfriend, or are you up for giving a real relationship a shot?

" he asked again., I pursed my lips, staying silent as he gracefully sipped his coffee and said,

"Smart women usually go for the relationship. No need to pay, and if it doesn't work out, we part ways.

"

"It seems like a risky move for you,

" I stirred my coffee, pondering.,

"It's not an opportunity everyone gets. I'm selective, based on what the other person brings to the table,

" he explained., He was clearly interested in me, suggesting a free trial run because he saw me as quite a catch.,

"About your rates, do you offer any VIP discounts?

" I had to ask. His fees weren't pocket change., Holding hands alone would set me back a pretty penny, especially if I needed him to play the part at a Wagner family gathering in front of Conrad.,

"No,

" he replied, then added,

"No haggling.

", I nodded.

"I understand all that you've mentioned. I need some time to consider. Feel free to keep taking other gigs. I won't be offended if something better comes along for you.

", As I said so, I felt it less like a date and more like a business negotiation., He looked at me earnestly.

"I'm genuinely interested in collaborating with you.

",

"You meet my criteria as well, but I want to keep my options open, you know, pick the best offer,

" I replied, channeling my inner business mogul.,

"Okay, I'll await your decision,

" he said, signaling the waiter.,

"Check, please. And include the lady's,

" he offered gallantly., I declined.

"No, let's split the bill.

", He didn't insist, paid with his phone, nodded with a smile, and left., I lingered in the café for a while longer before heading out., Fanny was working the night shift, so hanging out at her place wasn't an option. I grabbed some dinner and browsed the night market for quirky finds. It was eleven by the time I headed home., The air felt heavy. Maybe a storm was coming. When stepping out of my car, a chill swept over me, making me shiver, and I had this eerie feeling of being watched. I glanced around but saw nothing suspicious., Telling myself it was all in my head didn't help shake the discomfort as I quickened my pace home, hurrying up the stairs. But then, I heard footsteps following me, and of course, the hallway lights chose tonight to be out., Fear sent tingles through my scalp, and my high heels only made it harder to escape. The footsteps seemed to close in, almost as if my pursuer was reaching out to grab me. Gripping my bag tighter, I clutched my car keys, ready to defend myself. Instead of continuing upwards, I stopped, thinking it'd be safer not to lead the potential stalker to my door., The footsteps behind me halted as well., Taking a deep breath, I asked with a shaky voice,

"Who's there?

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