Chapter 20 Staying Overnight In A Rented House

• The night felt cold, the wind biting my skin as I walked along the sidewalk, leaving behind the hotel I never got to enjoy. Streetlights flickered faintly, casting my long shadow on the wet pavement. I didn’t know where I’d sleep tonight, alone in this big city, with no friends or family to lean on. My wallet was empty of Sis Elin’s privileges, and my heart was empty of the warmth I’d felt from her earlier.
• *Friends?* Yuna’s image flashed in my mind. Yes, Yuna was the only one I knew here. The only one I could call a friend. But I hesitated to contact her this late—it was nearly midnight. Though I was sure Yuna wouldn’t turn me away if I asked to crash, I didn’t want to burden her. Still, I had no other options. I decided to head to her boarding house without calling ahead. If she was still awake when I knocked, I’d ask for help. If not, I’d leave, maybe sleep on a park bench or at a nearby bus stop.
• When I reached Yuna’s place, my legs felt heavy climbing the cold concrete stairs. The corridor’s dim lights barely illuminated the way, with only the sound of crickets and the night breeze for company. I stood in front of room 30, my hand hovering hesitantly. After a deep breath, I knocked softly, almost inaudibly.