Met My Man When I Was Broke

CHAPTER 2

I was in my office, and during my break, I started browsing for apartments near my workplace.

I’m still living with Damian, and honestly, it’s getting embarrassing to stay for too long.

Thankfully, I had some savings before the fire burned down my house.

Some of my workmates even helped out—they donated what they could to support me and the rest of my community. I’ll never forget that kindness.

Just as I was scrolling through the listings, a message popped up on Messenger.

From Colley Santos:

Hi! I saw your post. I have a great unit that’s near your area. It’s a condo-type and the price is very negotiable.

It immediately caught my attention. So, I replied.

From Estella Railey:

Hi, I’m interested. How much does it cost?

She replied almost right away.

From Colley Santos:

It’s only 4,000 pesos a month—no down payment, no security deposit. You can move in now if you need it.

I blinked at the message.

Only 4,000 a month? No deposit or down payment? That sounded too good to be true.

Honestly, it felt like a scam. But then again… the pictures of the unit looked surprisingly decent.

Modern interiors. Clean. A small balcony.

I found myself staring at the photos longer than I expected.

It was suspicious—too affordable, too easy.

But I couldn’t lie to myself… I actually liked the unit.

—-

The Next Day

Since it was the weekend, I decided to meet Ms. Colley in person to check if the apartment was really as good as it looked online.

The moment I saw the building, I was surprised—it actually looked decent. Clean, modern, and best of all, it was just a short walking distance from my workplace. The name of the building was L. Diamond Tower.

I entered the lounge area and spotted a woman in a brown dress sitting confidently by the large glass windows. She looked like she was in her late twenties—stylish and elegant, the type of woman who might work in tech or fashion. Definitely gave off “rich IT girl” energy.

I walked up to her.

“Hi, Ms. Colley. I’m Estella, the one who inquired about the unit,” I said politely.

She turned to me with a warm smile. “Nice to meet you, Estella! I’ve been expecting you. Come, let me show you the unit.”

We took the elevator up to the fifth floor. The hallway smelled of fresh paint, and the tiles gleamed under the overhead lights. When she opened the door to the unit, I was genuinely impressed.

The place was small, but it was cozy and well-lit. It had a compact kitchen, a small dining area, a comfortable living space, and even a little balcony with a view of the street below.

“This unit is fully furnished,” Colley explained. “It comes with a bed, fridge, stove, and even Wi-Fi is already installed. The rent is 4,000 pesos per month, no down payment, and no security deposit. You can move in anytime you’re ready. The owner is currently abroad and just wants someone trustworthy to take care of the space. That’s why it’s so affordable.”

I turned to her, still a bit skeptical, but something about the place—and her—felt genuine. The vibe was calm. It didn’t feel like a scam. Maybe I was just lucky this time.

No second thoughts.

“I’ll take it,” I said without hesitation.

Colley grinned. “Great choice. I’ll prepare the minimal paperwork for you. You can already start moving in today if you like.”

It felt surreal… but also like a fresh start I badly needed.

After the unit viewing with Ms. Colley, we headed back to the lounge.

And as if the universe wanted to mess with me—there he was.

Damian. Walking into the building with his group of friends, all looking like they just stepped out of a fashion magazine. I instinctively gave him a look. Not just any look—but the look. The silent “What are you doing here?” kind of stare.

He noticed, of course. And that annoying smirk of his? Yeah, he gave me that too.

Crazy man.

But okay, I’ll admit it—in fairness, his friends were all ridiculously good-looking. Like, unfairly so.

Colley, who noticed where I was staring, nudged me lightly. “Do you know them?” she asked, her voice playful, clearly teasing.

I shrugged and said with a smirk, “Nope… but they look good.”

She let out a soft chuckle. “Yeah, the one at the back? That’s my brother, Adam,” she said, giving me a little too much information. But seriously, don’t be fooled—they’re all trouble. Crazy men. Don’t let the faces trick you.”

I laughed and nodded. “Don’t worry." Same thoughts. I already know the type.”

We shared a knowing smile. Maybe this apartment came with more drama than I signed up for—but at least I wasn’t facing it alone.