Turning Of the Tide by Diana Sander

Chapter 73
When they wrapped up their work the following afternoon, Natalie wasted no time and eagerly pulled Sherri along to embark on
their house-hunting expedition.
Sherri was genuinely impressed by Natalie’s decisive and proactive nature. She admired how Natalie did not waste a moment
and approached tasks with a determined mindset, without unnecessary delays or hesitations.
Exhausted and feeling discomfort from walking in high heels, Sherri began to question her life choices amidst the house-hunting
adventure. Her weariness seeped into her voice as she turned to Natalie and inquired, “Natalie, how many more places do we
still have to see? Wasn’t that one-bedroom apartment we saw earlier for $1000 good enough?” Natalie stopped in her tracks and
glanced at Sherri’s high heels. “I mentioned last night that we would be house hunting today, yet you insisted on wearing high
heels. If your feet are hurting now, whose responsibility is it?” she retorted playfully. “Let’s go and take a look at the last one. If it
doesn’t meet my requirements, 1 promise to book the one we saw earlier, Natalie assured.
“You promised. You can’t go back on your word, alright?” Sherri said.
Natalie’s gaze fell upon Sherri’s heels again, and she could not help but chuckle. “When I ask you to wear high heels for
shopping or trying on clothes, you handle it effortlessly But you’re already worn out and complaining when it comes to
accompanying me on a house hunt. It seems like our friendship isn’t as sturdy as we thought,” she teased.
Observing the banter between Natalie and Sherri, the real estate agent smiled warmly. ‘I envy your friendship. The both of you
share such a strong bond”
The two friends exchanged a meaningful glance and, overcome with genuine amusement, burst into laughter that resonated
from the depths of their hearts.
Sherri’s carefree and sometimes scatterbrained demeanor may give the impression of an easygoing personality, but when it truly
matters, her unwavering dedication to being there for Natalie shines through. No matter the circumstance, Sherri would
wholeheartedly support and assist her friend. She was willing to go above and beyond, even if it meant sacrificing her comfort
and waking up early in the morning to lend a helping hand.
Indeed, an authentic and genuine friend holds an immeasurable value that surpasses superficial connections.
The most profound emotions, most authentic feelings, and purest love in this world often originate from those who truly
understand us, share a profound connection with us, and genuinely accompany us through life’s ups and downs. These unique

individuals see us for who we indeed are and accept us unconditionally.
A deep understanding between individuals goes beyond verbal communication. It reaches a level where a mere glance or
expression is enough to convey thoughts and emotions. In this profound connection, words become secondary, and there exists
an unspoken language that allows each person to understand the other’s inner world effortlessly.
The real estate agent guided them to a residential area near the hospital, boasting a serene and pleasant environment. The
landscape comprised a mix of low-rise and high-rise buildings, with the shorter structures predominantly positioned towards the
east.
Upon their initial observation. Natalie was quite fond of the residential area’s environment,
With the real estate agent by their side, they ascended to the 5th floor. It was noted that the lower floors lacked elevators, while
the highest floor was the 6th floor. Each floor consisteil of two units.
With a gentle demeanor, the real estate agent opened the door and explained, “This apartment is a 2-bedroom, 1-living room
unit. However, I must mention that there is no elevator in the building. Some may find it relatively high because it is situated on
the 5th floor. Nonetheless, the surrounding environment is delightful, and the landlord has taken great care in renovating the unit.
It offers a comfortable living space.”
As the real estate agent explained, she guided Natalie and Sherri through each apartment room.
Natalie went straight to the point and asked. “What is the price range for this apartment?”
The agent’s smile widened, seemingly delighted by what she perceived as a fortunate opportunity. “Due to the lack of elevators,
this apartment has remained unoccupied for quite some time. It has been listed with our agency for a year now The landlord
wants someone to take good care of the place and keep it clean. The monthly asking price is 760 dollars,” the agent responded.
Considering the affordability of the price, Natalie made her decision without hesitation. “I have one question,” she began. “Would
it be possible to sign a two-month lease?”
The agent’s eyes widened briefly, perhaps surprised by Natalie’s request, but she swiftly regained her professional composure
and responded with a smile. Tm sorry, Miss Foster, but signing a two-month lease is impossible. Our standard lease term is one
year,” she explained.
“Sure. I’ll take some time to consider it. If it is suitable, I will contact you,” Natalie responded.

“Sure, no problem,” the agent smiled.
1Jespers 79 “Thank yo
The
wad. “That tabrighe. Then a m
chevad. Üherry rated a vast point. “Feeling i start term rental might indred Su challenging, the dere mastha maping at råber my
pl se Edwards place wems
After a brief momwer of beson Natale voed her thoughts Wolf you mirad helping me check with Tilward about the momħdi rental
die bos pila
After careful as nepriski beng
alsted that bra!
Year. The preference for longer lease terms. evertheless, the appreciated the kind and professional der
rcontemplated the future posibilities and
ing ripecially
unperpolar
real estate agent who had posted them
«ledged that if at a later
to return from abroad and
varte house still available suld be a favorable option to comadien
Kherri expressed her frustration to her best friend, voicing her earlier suggestion. I did suggest that you stay at my brother’s
place, but you didn’t listen,” she complained. “Was it really necessary to go through all this trouble- poor fert
cabe responded shopping nex

Oh, my
a playful eye roll and retorted. ́06, in su te kering you don’t want me to you don
me around, uy it?
mpany you for
Sherri raised her hands in surrender and hastily reassured. “Oh, Natalie, I was just kidding! Please don’t take it seriously. Our
friendship is strong and we shouldn’t let small things bother us”
to get the keys”
The topic took a sudden turn, and Sherri swiftly decideid. ‘Ill call on brother righ
Then, Sherri took out her phone and scrolled through her contacts, war hing for a speride contact
voir to bill the room. “Speak, what do you W
Sherry activated the speakerphone on her phone, curtly insured
cast a glance at Sherri and felt a twinge of sympathy
Sherri pouted. “Edward, could you do me a favor and lend me your apartment for a
ale glared meaningfully at Sherri, silently conveying that her worth might not have been the most appropriate.
herri waved her hand dismissively, shrugging off Natalie’s silent suggestion and concern
be
Edward’s voice carried a hint of skepticism and caution as he responded. “What kind of mischief are you up to agunt. There’s no
room for you in the apartment
Hearing Edward’s response Sherri pondered. “How can we continue this conversation”
die could not help but interject, taking control of the call as she clarified. “Edward, it’s me I’m the one who needs to rent a house
because I need somewhere to stay before I move abroad after the New Year Since I only need it for a short period, the agents
were hestant due to their minimum one-year lease requirement.”

and responded in a softened tone. “Tunderstand. I’ll have Kyle arrange for someone to clean the apartment in that case
tum to deliver the key to you later”
Natalie churned in. “No, it’s alright. I in clean it myself. But Edward. I wanted to ask you, how much is the monthly rent for fremur
pla
What would be a reasonable amount for me to contribute!”
In Natalie’s murad she thought “Even if at s 2000 dollars per month, it’s only for a month and a half at most. After all, the
oing to someone we know. It s not just a busness Tr naction, but a way to support each other as friends and
Edward chuckled at Natalie’s response and replied, “Sure, consider it my side income then. You can pay what you deem fit.”
Natalie felt a weight lifted off her shoulders as Edward agreed to let her stay at his apartment. With the financial aspect sectied,
she could now shaft her attention to assessing the houses condition and planning for any necessary repairs and furrashangs
“Will do Natalie replied
Kyle’s efficiency was commendable. He arrived promptly with the keys at the entrance of Edward’s residential complex. Without
any delay, he guided them to Edward’s apartment.
As they entered the apartment, they noticed two diligent domestic helpers doing cleaning tasks. Natalie could not help but be
pleasantly surprised by the efficiency with which things were being handled.
In just 30 minutes, from the moment they made the phone call to their arrival at the apartment, everything fell into place swiftly
and seamlessly.
The name of the residential complex is Evergreen Gardens.
The apartment impressively sprawled across 1800 square feet, encompassing two bedrooms and a spacious living room.
The apartment exuded a simple, tasteful decor style perfectly aligned with Edward’s preferences,
After completing the cleaning process. Kyle approached Natalie and conveyed Edward’s message. “Miss Foster, Mr. Landon
would like to check if there are any furnishings in the room that you find unsatisfactory. If there is anything you are not pleased

with, we can arrange for replacements or make alterations according to your preferences.”
Natalie pondered, “Considering that this is just a short-term rental, is it necessary to make any changes? After all, I’ll only stay
here for a little over a month. Edward’s thoughtfulness is making me feel a tad awkward.”
Sherri excitedly explored each room and exclaimed. “Natalie, I’ve decided. I’ll be moving in with you starting tomorrow. My
brother’s place is amazing, and it’s my first time visiting. Evidently, my brother doesn’t have a mistress or anything of the
sort.”
Kyle was at a loss for words.
Natalie kindly declined, “Thank you. but you do not need to go through the trouble of doing so. I’ll only stay for around two
months, so it’s unnecessary. I appreciate your offer, though, and thank you for being so thoughtful.”
Maintaining his usual serious demeanor, Kyle responded. “I must assist you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any
further needs or inquiries. I’ll take my leave now, Miss Foster.”
Upon Kyle’s departure, Sherri’s excitement grew, and she proposed, “Natalie, why don’t we stay here tonight? It’s such a cozy
place, and we can enjoy the comfort of Edward’s apartment.”
Natalie masked her true intentions and responded, “Actually, I need to visit the Wilson’s residence first. There are some matters I
need to attend to there.”
Sitting in the car. Natalie contemplated for a moment. Even if she rented the apartment from Edward, she could not shake off the
thought that her marital status might invite unwanted gossip and speculation.
With a clear mind, Natalie decided to talk with Theo about finalizing their divorce before proceeding any further. She realized it
was essential to address this matter and ensure that there were no legal or emotional entanglements that could complicate her
current situation.
With a clear understanding of the situation and considering the implications, Natalie resolved to approach the conversation with
Theo that evening. She recognized the importance of addressing the matter with empathy and reason, hoping that Theo would
understand her perspective. Obtaining the divorce certificate the next day would fulfill Trevon’s wishes and provide a sense of
closure for Natalie and Theo.

Sherri empathetically understood that Natalie’s decision to move out was driven by her desire to avoid any further interaction
with Trevon. She recognized that Natalie had likely devised a plan to handle the situation, which may involve directly addressing
the matter with Trevon.