Chapter9: The Hunt for a New Home

Chapter9: The Hunt for a New Home

Rebecca drove them to the first mansion in a sleek black SUV, her grip steady on the wheel. Ethan sat in the passenger seat, animatedly gesturing as he spoke.

"You two have hit the jackpot having Rebecca around," Ethan said, turning to glance at Leo and Emma in the backseat. "You'd be wandering aimlessly without her expertise!"

"Or maybe we'd just Google 'nice mansions near campus,'" Leo quipped, earning a quiet laugh from Emma.

Rebecca's lips twitched upward, but she didn't reply. Instead, she focused on the road, the car gliding smoothly into the driveway of their first stop.

The mansion loomed large, a statement of wealth and prestige. Perfectly manicured gardens framed the entrance, while marble columns stood like sentinels, guarding the massive oak doors.

"This place screams success," Ethan declared as he stepped out, gesturing dramatically to the sprawling property.

Emma, however, wasn't as enthused. She folded her arms, her eyes scanning the mansion with mild disinterest. "How far is this from campus?"

"About 40 minutes by car," Rebecca replied, her voice neutral.

"Too far," Emma said, shaking her head. "I'd rather spend time studying than commuting."

Leo hesitated, torn between Emma's practicality and the allure of the grand estate. "But look at it! It's perfect! Just imagine hosting parties here!"

Rebecca raised an eyebrow. "If you're looking for a party house, this is it. But for day-to-day living, Emma's got a point."

Leo sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Fine. On to the next."

As they piled back into the car, Ethan leaned toward Rebecca. "You'd pick this place, wouldn't you? It's got all that flashy, over-the-top energy."

"I'd pick what makes sense," Rebecca replied coolly.

"Exactly my point! See, that's why you're my fiancée—always so rational," Ethan said with a grin, clearly teasing.

Rebecca shot him a sharp look, silencing any further commentary.

The Second Mansion

The second mansion couldn't have been more different. With towering pillars and intricate woodwork, it exuded vintage charm and sophistication.

Rebecca's gaze softened as they entered. "This place… it's got character. Reminds me of home."

Ethan wrinkled his nose, eyeing the ornate furnishings. "It's so… old. I bet your grandfather designed this, didn't he?"

Rebecca turned her sharp gaze on him. "And if he did?"

"Nothing wrong with that! It's just, you know, not my style," Ethan stammered, stepping back defensively.

Rebecca's expression didn't waver. Before anyone could react, she delivered a swift jab to Ethan's back, sending him stumbling forward.

"Why?! That was uncalled for!" Ethan cried, rubbing the sore spot.

"For disrespecting my grandfather's taste," Rebecca replied flatly.

Leo snorted, trying to suppress a laugh but failing miserably.

"Oh, you think this is funny, huh?" Ethan glared at Leo, who quickly straightened up.

Rebecca shifted her gaze to Leo, her eyes narrowing dangerously. "Shall we move on to the next?"

Leo nodded vigorously. "Yes, definitely."

The Third Mansion

The moment they pulled up to the third property, the atmosphere shifted. Sleek and modern, the mansion featured sharp lines, glass facades, and a sprawling backyard with a serene pond.

"This is more like it," Ethan said, nodding in approval.

Emma's eyes lit up as she took in the view. "It's so close to campus! We could walk to class."

"And it has a pond," Rebecca noted, her voice lighter than before.

Ethan groaned, rolling his eyes. "Of course, you'd like the pond. Let me guess: your grandfather used to fish all the time, and now you've inherited his taste."

Before he could say more, Rebecca's foot shot out, catching him squarely in the back. Ethan tumbled out the open window, landing with a splash in the pond.

Leo stared, stunned. "Uh… was that necessary?"

Rebecca shrugged. "He needs to learn when to stop talking."

Ethan surfaced, spluttering. "You didn't have to throw me that far! The pond's on the other side of the yard!"

Leo let out a small laugh, which he immediately regretted when Rebecca turned her piercing gaze on him.

"You think this is funny?" she asked, her tone deceptively sweet.

"Well, it's just…"

Before he could finish, Rebecca grabbed him by the collar and sent him flying after Ethan.

Emma gasped, covering her mouth in shock. "Rebecca!"

Rebecca dusted off her hands. "They'll dry off. Come on, let's pick a room."

Rebecca led Emma through the spacious interior, her demeanor softening.

"This room has the best view of the pond," Rebecca said, gesturing to a corner suite with floor-to-ceiling windows.

Emma glanced outside, where Leo and Ethan were arguing by the water, both drenched and muddy. She stifled a giggle. "I think I'll take it. It's perfect."

Rebecca smiled approvingly. "Good choice. Let's hope those two don't flood the house when they come back in."

Emma nodded, warmth blooming in her chest. For the first time, this didn't feel like just a house—it felt like the start of something wonderful. Life with this group would definitely never be dull.