His Lovable Klutz (Completed)

Segment Twelve.

♥ Just Like A Paradise ♥

      Coby sat in the back of the cab, her hands resting nervously on her lap as she stared out the window at the passing scenery. The cityscape had slowly given way to a more suburban area, the buildings becoming fewer and farther between, replaced by stretches of green lawns and large houses.

      She watched as they passed rows of neatly trimmed hedges and perfectly manicured gardens. Each house they passed seemed bigger and grander than the last. But then, a particularly huge house came into view, and Coby's breath caught in her throat.

      The house was enormous, with an elegant exterior that looked like it had come straight out of a luxury home magazine. The walls were painted in soft shades of cream and beige, giving the house a warm, inviting glow under the morning sun. The large black iron gate at the front of the property stood tall, a formidable barrier that added an air of exclusivity. The entire property was set a little bit away from the hustle and bustle of the city, nestled in what seemed like its own private oasis.

      Earlier that same morning, Coby was standing at the front door of Audrey's apartment, hugging her tightly.

      "Thank you so much for letting me crash here these past few weeks," Coby said, her voice filled with gratitude. "I don't know what I would've done without you." 

      Audrey squeezed her back, smiling. "Don't mention it, Coby. You know you're always welcome here. Just make sure you call me, okay? I want to hear all about this fancy new job of yours."

      "I will, I promise," Coby assured her. "And I'll come to visit you more often. We'll catch up like old times."

      Audrey chuckled. "Good, because I'll miss you driving me crazy around here."

      "Hey!" Coby laughed, swatting her playfully. "You'll miss me, and you know it."

      Audrey grinned, nodding. "Yeah, I will. Go knock 'em dead, okay?"

      "Thanks, Audrey. You're the best," Coby said, giving her one last hug before grabbing her suitcase and heading out the door.

      Back in the present, the cab slowed as it approached the grand gate. Coby leaned forward in her seat, her eyes wide with fascination. The closer they got, the more she realized just how enormous the property was.

      The gate itself was tall, wrought iron, and flanked by thick stone pillars. As the cab stopped, Coby quickly gathered her things, her heart racing with a muddle of excitement and nerves.

      After paying the cab driver, Coby dragged her suitcase out, the wheels making a soft thud as they hit the pavement. She took a deep breath and walked toward the gate, her eyes still darting around as she took in the grandeur of the place.

      "Hello? Is anyone there?" she called out, feeling a bit awkward as her voice echoed slightly against the stone walls.

      A moment later, a man in his early forties, wearing a crisp uniform, emerged from a small house attached to the gate. The house looked like a security post, complete with a small window and a door that led to the control room where the gate was operated.

      The man, who had a welcoming smile on his face, approached the gate. His name tag read Todd, and he wore a neatly pressed black uniform with silver accents, giving him a very official appearance.

      "Who are you?" Todd asked, his tone polite but curious.

      Coby gave a small wave. "I'm Coby Cooper. I was hired as the new cook."