“You don’t have to be sorry, I’m at fault here too.” He half smiled and shrugged. “I guess the timing worked out perfectly, as I was on my way home to shower anyway.” Seeing her bow and shyly introduce herself, he now gave a full smile and responded, “Nice to meet you! I’m Raymond Turner, but I go by Ray. I live just down the hall. I really hope you like it here, I personally think it’s a good place. Still, once again, I’m sorry about the paint.” He held his hand out as an offering for a handshake.
Emelie shook his hand lightly, smiling nervously.
“I hope you don’t get in trouble for the paint…” she said quietly. “It’s bright green, too…” she sighed, but shook herself out of it. Raymond—Ray— said it was okay, so she shouldn’t be beating herself for it. “Um, it’s my first time living on my own, so I hope I can count on you if I need any help… and of course, you can count on me, too!”
He smiled again at her, already liking her. “Hey, don’t worry, who could I even get in trouble with?” He shrugged, trying to convey it was no big deal. “Of course, Emelie! I’m always around, I’m more than willing to help out with stuff. And good luck to you, living by yourself. I moved out last year, when I started taking classes- I go to the university down the street. If you ever feel like you’re having bad luck living by yourself just remember I couldn’t figure out how to turn on my oven for the first two months.” He laughed and shook his head at his own mistakes.
Emelie giggled.
"I think I can turn on an oven," she replied, amused. "Although I can't say I don't start a fire, either. I'm terrible at cooking. Anyway, I shouldn't keep you here any longer… I don't want to make it more difficult for you with the paint and all." Emelie pointed at him, an apologetic look on her face as the paint on her new neighbor started drying off.
Laughing himself, he said, “Well, don’t worry. I’m sure everything will be fine. And if the building burns down, I promise I won’t be a snitch.” He winked. Ray then added, “Alright, that’s probably smart,” he looked at his shirt. “Anyways, I hope I see you around! Good luck, and don’t be a stranger.” He gave a small wave before walking down the hallway towards his apartment.