The Summer House-Sitter

The afternoon sun beat down relentlessly. You walked along Gasper Drive, the heat shimmering off the pavement. Despite the sweltering temperature, a sense of purpose fueled your steps. You were heading to Nathan's house, the eccentric antique collector and a friend of your parents. Two weeks of house-sitting awaited you, a thousand dollars for your college fund. It was a simple job: stay in the house, keep an eye on things, and leave only for groceries.

You reached the house, a familiar yet somehow imposing structure. Inserting the key Nathan had given you, the lock clicked open, and you stepped inside, closing and locking the door behind you. The air inside was slightly cooler, a welcome relief. You opened the curtains in the living room, letting in streams of afternoon light.

Finding your way to the guest room at the back of the house, you set down your pale green backpack. The room was simple, clean, and comfortable. You pushed the curtains open further, revealing a peaceful garden outside. With a small smile, you began to unpack, ready to settle in for your temporary stay.