From the Start

Chapter 7

Paprika's

I was signing the contract lease for the condominium that I decided to rent since the contract signing in Tristan's agency is already done and I already received the signing bonus. I managed to get a place just near Pyre's unit, which is just a few units away from hers.

"Congratulations, Ms. Leclair. Here are all the documents that you've signed up and we welcome you to the Crystal Prestige Towers family," Clarisse handed me the brown envelope that contained all the documents. Pyre chuckled and after the unit lease signing, we went straight to the unit. I punched in the keycard since the floor we're in already has a keycard system, unlike the lower unit levels that needs a literal key.

The place also has a two-bedroom unit, just like Pyre's. The interior of the condominium unit exemplifies a perfect fusion of modern elegance. With its perch on the 22nd floor of The Crystal Prestige Tower, it offers an unparalleled panoramic view of New York City's iconic skyline. The spacious layout is flooded with an abundance of natural light, making the space feel inviting and uplifting.

As you step inside, you'll immediately notice the sleek dark hardwood flooring, which provides a striking contrast to the crisp, clean lines of the contemporary furnishings. The kitchen is a culinary masterpiece, boasting top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, a generous marble-topped island, and an open design that encourages both casual dining and grand entertaining.

Again, there are two spacious bedrooms, each with its own ensuite bathroom, epitomize luxury living. The bathrooms are outfitted with double vanities, deep soaking tubs, and designer fixtures, creating spa-like retreats within the unit. Storage is thoughtfully integrated, with walk-in closets, concealed spaces, and an in-unit laundry room. The real showstopper, however, is the magnificent view of New York City that can be admired through the floor-to-ceiling windows.

After we examined the unit, Pyre went straight to the main bedroom and sunk herself onto the bed.

"Your mattress is much softer than mine." She pouted.

"Then I guess you should stay here more often," I replied, we both laughed at what I said. The unit is already fully furnished which means there are appliances and some unit decorations present already.

Pyre stayed in my unit and she helped me arrange some of my stuff so we could empty the room I occupied in her unit. After we cleaned the room where I stayed in her place, we cleaned the unit which I considered my new home.

While Pyre is in the kitchen, where she feels at home. She's making us some snacks since we spent almost 5 hours, transferring all my stuff, scouring the room where I stayed, and cleaning the room in my new unit. I received a call from the lobby saying that I have a parcel and they're gonna look into it also, I need to sign some papers regarding that parcel. I grabbed my wallet and my key card.

"I have a parcel in the lobby, I'll be back in a few," I said to Pyre, and she agreeably nodded.

I rode the elevator until I made it to the lobby. The concierge immediately approached me when he saw me from the elevator.

"Ms. Leclair, this way please," He led me the way to their office, and I gladly came with him. When we got inside their office, they took some of the papers individually for me to sign. They gave me a pen so I could sign it and after a few minutes, they took out the parcel which looked like a heavy one that's why they needed to look further into it. It's in a medium box and since I just signed my unit contract. I'm very well aware that with this kind of package, the security officers need to look into it.

One of the security officers looked at me like he was still asking for my permission. I nodded to him and then he proceeded to slash the top of the box using a small knife from his multi-tool. There were a few bubble wraps inside the package and they started to remove the item one by one. When they determined that most of the items were different kinds of spices and a few stuffed toys, they decided to put everything back inside and sealed it with their packaging tape. One of the concierges assisted me using a trolly where they placed my package since it's a heavy one. I said 'thanks' to them and then I left their office.