**Chapter 24: How Could She Be So Cute?** “What? One hundred bucks a month for an apartment like this? It’s beyond comprehension!” The realtor stared at Janet, his expression a mix of disbelief and intrigue. Yet, reality struck him hard. This apartment wasn’t his to rent out, so he couldn’t seal the deal without consulting the landlord. “Mrs. Lester,” he began, managing a semblance of professionalism, “I must admit, your offer is quite shocking. However, this property isn’t mine to finalize. I need to confer with the landlord.” With that, he stepped out of the room, his phone in hand, ostensibly to make a call. As he moved, he shot Ethan a quick wink, silently seeking his opinion. Ethan, catching the unspoken communication, nodded vigorously in agreement without a moment’s hesitation. Janet, on the other hand, felt a knot tightening in her stomach. Her offer felt audacious, perhaps too far-fetched. Minutes passed like hours, and when the realtor finally returned, a broad grin spread across his face. “The landlord has given the green light,” he announced triumphantly. Janet’s jaw dropped, her face a canvas of shock. She had half-heartedly thrown out the low rent, never genuinely believing it could be accepted. Eyes wide, she glanced at Ethan, seeking reassurance. “What’s the matter?” Ethan asked, stepping closer, concern etched on his features. “I don’t think this is your average haunted house. Something dreadful must have unfolded here; otherwise, why would the landlord willingly rent it for such a pittance?” Her hot breath brushed against his ear, momentarily distracting him. After a moment’s pause, Ethan blinked, then asked, “Do you want to look for another place?” “No way. We’ve struck gold with this affordable option! I'm not letting it slip through my fingers,” she declared, her determination strong. “Aren’t you worried it might be haunted?” he teased, raising an eyebrow. “Not at all! The rent is simply too good to pass up. Even if there are ghosts, I’d gladly invite them over for dinner!” Janet stated with fervor. Ethan watched her, a mix of admiration and disbelief washing over him. He had never encountered someone so eager to embrace the supernatural merely because the financial deal was right. He narrowed his eyes playfully, pinching her cheek. “Wow! You’re quite the fearless one, aren’t you?” Swallowing hard at the unexpected softness of her skin, Ethan gave a slight nod of appreciation. “Ouch! Ethan, that hurts!” Janet protested, a flush creeping onto her cheeks as she tipped onto her toes, trying to grab his face for a playful retaliation. Yet, Ethan, with his towering stature, swiftly evaded her grasp. She couldn’t even reach his chin. “Let me go! Ethan! I’m mad now,” she huffed, feigning anger. “Stay still. You’ve got some dust on your face, and I’m just cleaning it off,” he replied, a broad grin on his lips as he looked down at her. *How could she be so cute?* he mused silently, his heart warming at the sight of her. The following day, with excitement tinged by apprehension, Janet and Ethan moved into their new apartment. The convenience of the location was undeniable; it would allow her to slash her commuting time and focus more on her work. In her spare moments, Janet began taking on freelance design projects, hoping to earn some extra income. On weekends, she visited Hannah at the hospital, the woman who had been her guiding light. “Hannah,” she began, peeling a shiny apple with care, “I’m thinking about moving you to a better hospital for treatment. The facilities in the city are far more advanced, and it would make it easier for me to see you often.” Hannah, a woman who had become a surrogate mother to Janet, sighed as she shook her head. Her once-vibrant hair had turned gray, enchanting yet tinged with the sorrow of her illness. At just sixty, she appeared far older, the weight of her ailments etched deeply into her features. “The hospitals there are too expensive, dear. I’m comfortable here,” she replied, her voice warm yet firm. Janet could see the resilience in her eyes, even as they reflected the toll that time and illness had taken. *She knows about my struggles,* Janet thought, grateful but burdened by the reality of their situation. “I’ve found a new job, and I can handle everything. Trust me, I’m fine,” Janet reassured her with a bright smile as she offered a plate filled with apple slices. Yet, the truth gnawed at her — the costs of care would double if Hannah were relocated to a better hospital, a financial burden Janet simply couldn’t shoulder alone. But she wore her positivity like armor, determined to keep hope alive, even in the face of daunting challenges.