The New Flat

After two weeks of searching, Nora is beginning to think that finding an affordable flat near her office is impossible. Her brother, Leo, offers to accompany her to one last viewing on Saturday. Despite its age, the building has a clean entrance, and the owner arrives on time.

The flat is smaller than the photographs suggested. Even so, the bedroom gets plenty of natural light, and there is a space by the window where Nora could put her desk. She imagines reading there in the evenings instead of sitting on her bed, as she does in her current room.

While Nora considers the atmosphere, Leo concentrates on the practical details. He tests the taps, checks the kitchen cupboards and asks which appliances are included in the rent. The fridge is staying, but there is no washing machine. The owner also mentions that the heating is electric, so winter bills might be higher because of the price of electricity.

They spend a moment by the open window. Despite being close to a supermarket and a bus stop, the street is quiet. Better still, Nora could walk to work in twenty minutes. She likes the idea of saving both money and time, although she is worried about the extra cost of heating.

On the bus home, Leo advises her not to make a decision just because she is tired of searching. Nora agrees. In spite of her tiredness, she asks the owner for an estimate of the monthly bills. His reply is reassuring. That evening, she writes to say she would like to rent the flat, provided the agreement matches what they discussed.