Up the Ante

Bet One

I wave one last time to my parents as they drive away in their car. They helped me unload my clothes and toiletries then headed out. It took my mom forever to release me from a hug, and my dad shook my hand for five whole minutes. I know I'll miss them, but I was still excited because I was finally about to start my life in a new city as a freshman.

I watch their car until it disappears over the hill. I exhale deeply, turning to face my apartment. "Home sweet home, huh?" I pick up the box of my things that Mom brought me, then head in. I lock the door behind me and stare at the cream-colored walls. I sigh at the barren, dark floorboards and rest across them. "I almost forgot I didn't have any furniture."

This was the cheapest apartment I could get. The landlord said it would be unfurnished, which dropped the price immensely. It had a living room, kitchen, one and a half bathrooms, and one bedroom. All appliances were also included. I was sold. Everyone knows money is best spent on things that can get you more money. All of the material stuff comes after. Like couches and coffee tables.

I sigh, letting the cold wooden floor caress my back. "...Do I really even need furniture? Maybe start off with one thing?" I soon roll off of my back to fetch my laptop. I flip it open and type in my code. I then open up a browser and go to Go Rooms, Go's website. The only reason I searched for it was because I saw it on my way here. It's pretty close by. I first look at the couches. My jaw drops at the prices. "Okay...how about beds then?" I scroll back to the top and click mattresses. Not as expensive, but not cheap either. "I'll probably get one after my third paycheck. Sadly, I still need to save money for rent."

After closing my laptop, I decided to see what the box my mom packed for me contained. I rip it open. There are two small boxes of soap, a body sponge, and a gift basket full of homemade meals. I look up and close my eyes. "I love you, mom," I barely whisper. I take a closer look and see an envelope taped to the wrapping. I pluck it off and read it.

"Don't give your mother all the love here. I know how hard it is to move out and live on your own. Getting money can be tough, so I thought I'd help you out. Flip this card around."

I stop reading it to do as it instructs. On the back of the card is 500 dollars. I quickly flip it back to finish reading it.

"Not bad, huh? That should be enough for a mattress. Maybe even a little something extra. Just remember. Be responsible. Respectfully yours, Dad."

"I love you too, Dad." I set the basket and money to the side and pull out a soft, memory foam square. "My favorite pillow! Comfortable and saves money!"

I get up, store the food in the fridge, and put the soap and stuff in the bathroom. I am getting that mattress today! I'd rather use Dad's money than mine! I leave my new home and get into my car. I start it up and head for Go Rooms Go.

On the way to my destination, I see this guy with torn-up clothes, fully matted hair, and a sign that reads, "HUNGRY LIKE THE WOLF". I hold back my laughter from the cleverness of it. I snap out of it when I realize he is walking down the rows in my direction. I begin to panic. I didn't even have change on me. What am I supposed to do?

I think back to what Mom always said. "Never look them in the eye. Once you do, it's over. Just pray the light turns green before you need to make any sudden actions." I look at his position. He is at least five cars away from me. Please turn green, please turn green-

Green has never looked brighter. As all the cars start to pass him by, me being one of them, I take this opportunity to spare him a final glance. Just as my luck would have it, he is starting right back at me. I try to feign a smile, but highly doubt he sees it. I would've helped him if I had a dollar...maybe...but I'm not handing 100 dollars to a homeless man! I shake my head to clear my thoughts and continue on my way to Go Rooms Go.