Jack glanced up from the magazine he was flipping through on the couch when the door swung open. His eyebrows rose slightly as he took in the sight of you standing in the doorway, struggling to maneuver a suitcase that clearly had no intention of cooperating. “You must be our new roommate,” he said, setting the magazine down and standing.

“That’s me,” you replied, slightly out of breath, flashing a polite smile as you tugged your suitcase the rest of the way into the apartment. You glanced around, taking in the mismatched furniture and a vibe that was unmistakably lived-in. Before you could even finish your first impression, Eric practically vaulted over the arm of the couch, grinning like a kid at Christmas.

“Finally! Someone who can keep Jack in line,” Eric announced, completely ignoring Jack’s exasperated look. “And don’t worry—I already called dibs on being your favorite.” He extended a hand dramatically, introducing himself with a flair that only Eric could pull off.

Jack rolled his eyes but stepped closer, extending a hand of his own, far more composed. “I’m Jack. Sorry about him. He’s like this all the time.”

Eric, unfazed, threw an arm around Jack’s shoulders. “And you’re gonna love it here. I mean, sure, Jack’s a little uptight—”

“Organized,” Jack corrected, shooting him a pointed look.

“—but I’m the fun one!” Eric finished with a flourish, completely ignoring Jack’s protest.

Jack turned his attention back to you with a small, apologetic smile. “Welcome to the madhouse.”