A few hours before all hell broke loose in that condo, a somewhat unkempt, light brown-haired boy was wandering around the edge of the residential area doing reconnaissance work. Essentially, scanning the area for ads and rental signs. He appeared to be strolling along casually, when in reality he was quite anxious.
—Even with hostels of dubious provenance, the money disappears so fast that. For some reason, I feel offended. They are so used to using digital money here, I sense that they charged me extra just by bringing up the idea of paying in cash. Wherever I go, cash is always a problem. Waking up in an unfamiliar place with nothing is terrifying, but the idea of going to a new place and losing every penny is just as terrifying.
Acke Egil nodded eagerly to himself, and marched forward.
—At least, now that I have papers, I can hunt down a cheap place to rent. Then comes a job. But first a roof over my head. With a safe roof over my head, I can somehow manage until I get a job —Acke pondered as he felt the wad of cash getting smaller even in his pocket, sighing—. I would rather not spend another night in one of those "motels" where they don't ask questions.
The young boy continued walking for a couple of minutes, and a large concrete block entered his field of vision. His attention was captured by a large screen in the center of the building, which displayed an austere but attractive advertisement, and next to it, perhaps even more eye-catching—that was up for discussion—, hanging vertically, was another advertisement: a giant print with thick letters and a humanoid character, which he did not recognize from anywhere, smiling from ear to ear. In contrast to the cold, effectivity-centered digital ads he had seen so far, that analogous billboard gave Acke a good feeling.
—What time is it? —He looked up at the summer sky, now completely darkened—. Around 7-8pm. It's a little late, I hope they'll want to wait on me. Oh, well. No harm in asking.
He rang the doorbell and examined the interior, what he could, at least, through the firm glass framed by steel bars. A meek-looking man emerged from behind a door in the open reception cubicle. Without waiting for acknowledgment, Acke merely pointed upward, trusting that his intention would be conveyed.
Putting on an expression that said he understood and a smile on his face next, the man came running up and from behind the glass asked: "Coming to see the apartments, young man?" Although he could have used the intercom on the desk.
Acke nodded and with a push of a button the kind man opened the doors for him. Upon entering, the place gave a pleasant feel. Minimal decor here and there. A couple of pieces of furniture and small tables around the corners, roses, and a few minimalist paintings. The lobby itself was not excessive, but spacious enough to hold about thirty people at a time without a problem. Following the man's instructions, Acke entered the office, sat down and accepted a cup of coffee that was offered to him with great kindness.
—So… How can I help you? —The man who moments before had introduced himself as the administrator asked cordially.
—I was searching for a place to settle down when I saw the ad outside a few moments ago. I'm tired of hotels, and it seems my stay is, for now, indefinite in this city.
—Oh —he said, delighted—. I understand.
—Yes…
—Well, as you can see —continued the manager enthusiastically—, the building is new. Oh, but do not worry, the apartments are very cheap and very nice. It is designed to meet all the needs of our tenants, being economical and with great design. Don't take my word for it, but, and I say this with pride, our building is much more attractive and comfortable than others for the same prices.
—I see. I would like to see some apartments, of the more economical range. You must understand, sir, I have some money saved up, but I recently moved to this city, and I am yet to find employment.
—Precisely that! —Said the friendly looking administrator—. I mean, of course, don't worry. We are the right ones for you, young man. We offer the best conditions and reasonable prices. Like you, I was also adventurous when I was young. I went to a new city, without knowing anyone, to try my luck —although his gaze hit the wall before reaching the imaginary horizon, he certainly gave the impression of looking into the distance—. I experienced many things in those years, but even now, I don't regret my decision. Now, how about we see the apartments?
From the office to the penultimate door of the condominium's right wing, on the second floor, the manager was pointing out, like an expert tour guide, all the details and benefits of signing a contract with them. Upon entering, he was greeted by a small, but cozy room with two sections: Living room-kitchen and bedroom. In the entirety of the room there was only a sofa, where an 8-year-old could barely fit lying down, air conditioning, and a small smart screen hanging on the wall.
They proceeded to discuss the price there, among other details, such as requirements and code of conduct. He did not ask for a guarantor, nor much personal information such as work or savings in the bank account, only two months have to be paid in advance as a guarantee. Satisfied with the conditions, Acke was ready to leave and return tomorrow, but was stopped by the administrator.
—Why don't you spend the night? —said the kind man—. Then you can get an idea and let me know what you think the next day. The room is clean, the robots do it periodically to empty apartments.
—Aren't you worried that I'll steal something or cause trouble in the building?
—Oh, that's okay, we have an immaculate security system and team. Besides, you don't look like the type to start trouble. The room has nothing but a couch and a TV, not so different from a hotel, huh? Come on, spend the night; I assure you, you'll want to close the deal tomorrow first hour in the morning. You'll love it. The room is right next to mine, so you have nothing to worry about. Please don't hesitate to call me any time you want if you have a problem. Now, why don't we go back to the office to register your data in the system?
—When you put it like that… It seems I can't say no to a good deal. Sure, let's go do what you just said.
—Oh, but first, let me go get some clean sheets from my room.
—Thank you. Surely, I'll be sleeping like a baby tonight.