70 A Present to Celebrate Their Uncertain Freedom (1/2)

Meanwhile, Hyuk was sitting with an impatient look on his face inside a realtor's office.

”Look, Student, I really can't go any lower than this.” The realtor sighed.

Hyuk wanted to rent a place that was cheap, clean, and safe. Most of all, it had to be ready for moving in immediately. Out of all the real estate that was under him, very few matched his preference. Looking over the quoted budget of the student, there was very little he could offer.

Most of the ready-to-move-in apartments had a higher deposit fee compared to what Hyuk wrote down, so he was troubled.

”Student, with that amount of cash, the most you could get is a basement room,” he says, ”if you want something that fits all of your criteria, you have to be willing to splurge a little bit more.”

Hyuk's jaw locked. After mulling on it for a few minutes, he finally muttered, ”fine.” It looks like he had to get another job soon. His wallet and savings account were drying so fast. He worked for years for that money, but before he knew it, they were gone. 'F*ck capitalism,' he hatefully thought.

Seing Hyuk's new budget, he smiled. He felt slightly bad for the young man. He knew that at that age, money was tight. He had experienced the same thing when he was at that age as well, so he couldn't help but sympathise.

Hyuk spent two hours with the realtor.

Several of the units up for rent were close to the office, so they went to check them out.

Unfortunately, none of them were good enough to satisfy Hyuk. It would be easier if he was alone, but he had to take into account Yeo Ri's safety and comfort while considering a new place to live. In the end, he ended the meeting after scheduling for another visit on another day. There was still a few places left for him to survey, but it was getting late.

Hyuk made a stop before returning to the motel.

It was a gadget store.

He wanted to get Yeo Ri a phone so that they can communicate more easily. It made him uneasy thinking about how Yeo Ri had not been able to call for help previously because she lacked this commodity.

”Welcome,” a store clerk greeted politely.

Hyuk looked around the store, eyeing the displayed products.

”What are you looking for, customer?” A salesperson noticed his action and immediately came forward to offer assistance.

Hyuk was not particularly interested about gadgets, so he appreciated the help.

”I'm looking for a phone,” he replied.

”Right this way, sir!” The salesperson flashed a business smile. He led Hyuk towards the smartphone section, explaining the details and functions of their latest models.

Hyuk didn't have the patience to look thoroughly or listen to the salesperson's spiel, so he simply took out his phone, saying that he wanted the same one.

Examining Hyuk's phone, the salesperson smiled, recognising its brand and model. ”Yes, right away, sir.” He moved to bring out a new package, configuring it for his customer. After setting up the phone and activating the mobile plan, the salesperson bagged his purchase.

”Will that be all, sir?”

”Yes.”

”Will you make a single payment or in instalments?”