Shadow Manor (Ereri/Riren)

Chapter One

I'm fucked.

That was the first thought that came to mind as I read the 7-day eviction notice that was taped to my apartment door. I honestly should have seen this coming, especially after failing to pay rent on time multiple months this past year. But I suppose that's what I get for following my dreams without having a backup plan.

But even though I understand why I received such a horrid, torturous note. I can't help but still resent my landlord. But why blame the messenger when I am the one at fault?

Sighing heavily, I ripped the notice off the door and walked into my apartment trying to shut the door behind me. After the third failed attempt of trying to shut it somewhat normally, I had to resort to slamming my body against it. Once I managed to shut the stubborn, cracked door and lock the deadbolt, I made my way to the kitchen to make some mac and cheese. It isn't the healthiest thing, but it holds my stomach over until I'm able to eat my next meal.

Taking a pot out of the cupboard, I begin to fill it with water until it's full enough to put the crunchy, uncooked noodles inside. Once the noodles are poured, I move over to the stove and turn it to the high heat setting while placing the pot on top of the fiery blue ring. At least my stove is up to date.

As I waited for the noodles to become soft, I started counting the cracks in the ceiling. There were many so it kept me busy for a while until I heard the soft bubbling of the pot.

Dumping the excess water in the sink, I put the white noodles in a bowl and added milk and the packaged liquid cheese that came in the box to the noodles. After stirring the cheesy goodness, I made my way to my worn-out leather couch and plopped down. Once situated, I reached over to the coffee table in front of me and quickly snatched my half-read book from where I put it last night. Opening the worn-out book to where I put my bookmark, I began to read.

After about five or six minutes of reading though, I began to space out. Which is nothing unusual for me. Whenever I'm stressed, I can't ever seem to focus on something for more than five minutes. And it doesn't help that I am never not stressed. At this point people are asking me if I have an attention disorder.

Well... it's not totally out-ruled. But whatever. If I ever get health insurance, I'll see if I can get tested for ADHD or something. But right now, that is definitely not a priority.

Speaking of priorities, I need to seriously make a plan. Whether that plan includes me giving up my dreams and getting a new job, or.....

Shit.

That's my only fucking option, isn't it? Well fuck me I guess.

This means I will have to break the news to Sasha and Connie that I'm closing the shop for good. Seeing as they are my only employers. Another sigh escaped my lips at the thought of seeing a 'For Sale' sign in front of my beloved coffee shop.

I've worked so hard to succeed, but life has never really been kind to me.

Putting down my book, and now empty bowl, I sluggishly maneuver myself off the couch and make my way to the counter where I put my phone. Snatching it quickly, I then make my way back to the couch and plop ungracefully down. In the back of my mind, I can hear my Aunt's voice.

' Dammit Eren. Stop flopping on the couch like a walrus before you break it'.

Yep, clear as day.....

To be honest, I've never really been good at anything other than making tea or coffee. Hell, I've never prepared for anything but having a job in the Café business. So now that I'm having to resort to other methods I'm having a difficult time conjuring ideas.