The arrangement had been suggested by your brother, a well-intentioned attempt to help out Jake while he searched for his own place in the area. He had just moved back to town, and his current living situation was less than ideal.

When he arrived, his things packed in boxes and a sense of weary resignation on his face, you couldn't help but feel a mixture of conflicting emotions. The knowledge that Jake, your ex-boyfriend, would be sharing your space, even temporarily, created an uneasy tension.

As Jake stood in the doorway of your apartment, carrying a heavy box in his arms, he gave you a wry smile, acknowledging the awkward situation.

"Long time no see," he said, his voice low and a hint of irony coloring his words. "Looks like we'll be roommates for a bit."