“Hey, I wasn’t the one who said it.” Taking a sip of his wine, he then looks at me and we both start laughing, breaking the awkward silence and atmosphere between us.

“Let’s move to the couch to talk. You get comfortable, I’ll clear the dishes.” Standing, he reaches for my plate, but I grab it before he can.

“Not a chance. We clean up together, I’m not useless.” He goes to reply but instead just nods, and we both continue clearing the table and loading the dishwasher.

Forrest tops up our glasses with more wine, and as I reach the living room, I remember something Felisha once told me about him.

“Which seat is yours?” I ask.

He looks a little shy but points to the one on the end, which when you study it, you can see it has more wear than the other.

“Thank you,” he says and takes his seat as I choose one at the other end of the couch.

Felisha told me that he is a creature of habit. And my question seemed to mean a lot to him.

We both wriggle our bodies and let our muscles relax as we sag properly into the couch, before we look at each other, and I wonder where to start.

“I know I can be a dick, and living with me will be hard, but I figured if we talk about some ground rules, it will be easier,” he blurts out, and I’ve never been more thankful that he started us in the right direction.

“Well, if we are being honest, I know I will also be a bitch to live with on a good day, but if this turns into anything bigger than it is right now, I can’t guarantee I won’t become your worst nightmare. I have a flare for the dramatic.” I wave my hands in the air to accentuate the point

“No shit, Sherlock!” This time Forrest’s laugh is deep and from the bottom of his belly.

“Okay, that’s enough. Neither of us are perfect, although I’m damn close. I’m sure you agree.” Holding my glass in the air, Forrest follows. “To being perfect roomies.” I smile and all Forrest does is roll his eyes at me.

“Hmmm, I’m not sure about that, but let’s toast to roomies who get through this and are both still alive.”

“Yep, I’ll drink to that too.” I laugh. The second glass of wine is starting to take effect, and I’m feeling relaxed, which could be either good or bad, but I guess we will see the longer we talk.

“The first thing we need to agree on is that you won’t leave. I need you to promise me you will stay here so you are safe, no matter how much I piss you off,” he says.