Chapter 91 I Can't Stay for Free

The three of them were sprawled out on the comfy sofa, the flickering light from the movie dancing on their faces, giving the room a cozy vibe. As the movie went on, the living room was filled with bursts of laughter.

Joseph was totally chilled out, soaking in this rare downtime and the good vibes with Emily and James.

When the movie wrapped up, they were still buzzing, chatting about the best parts and the funniest moments. Emily was all about the clever plot twists, James couldn't stop raving about the actors, and Joseph dove deep into the movie's theme.

As night crept in and stars dotted the sky, their unforgettable movie night wound down in the snug living room.

"It's already eleven-thirty, time to hit the hay. Tomorrow's Monday, and we gotta be up early," Emily said, glancing at the clock and realizing how late it had gotten.

"Wow, it's that late? Time really flies," James said, checking his phone. He quickly got up and started picking up the snack wrappers from the table.

Joseph grabbed the bag from him. "Hey, don't worry about it. You go get ready for bed, then Emily can go next. You have to be up early for school. Emily and I will handle the cleanup."

James hesitated, looking at Emily. "But..."

"Just listen to Joseph. There's not much to clean up, we can handle it. You go get ready for bed," Emily cut him off, agreeing with Joseph.

James knew there was no point in arguing. The living room wasn't that messy anyway, so he might as well get ready quickly so everyone could get to bed sooner.

"Alright, I'll listen to you." James grabbed his pajamas and headed to the bathroom. Soon, the sound of running water filled the house.

Joseph and Emily shared a smile and got to work tidying up the living room.

Emily stood up, gathered the popcorn bowl and glasses, and took them to the kitchen sink, turning on the faucet to start washing.

She busied herself in the kitchen, carefully washing each glass and plate, making sure they were spotless. Her movements were gentle and precise, showing her care for the household items. After washing, she dried them with a clean towel and neatly put them back in the cabinet, everything in its place.

In the living room, Joseph wasn't slacking either. He tossed all the snack wrappers into the trash. For the snacks that weren't finished, he used small clips to seal them and neatly placed them on the dining table to keep them fresh.

After tidying the table, Joseph folded the blanket they had used, his movements smooth and deliberate. He folded it into a perfect rectangle and placed it in the corner of the sofa.

Next, he grabbed the vacuum cleaner from the balcony and carefully cleaned the sofa and the rug in front of it. He made sure to get every last crumb, checking with his hands and eyes to make sure nothing was missed.

When he was done, he turned off the vacuum cleaner, and the living room fell silent. He stood there, looking around with a satisfied smile.

Emily appeared at the kitchen door, holding a freshly packed garbage bag. She scanned the spotless living room, a look of surprise on her face. She hadn't expected Joseph to clean up so quickly and thoroughly.

"You... you cleaned everything?" Emily's voice had a hint of disbelief as she looked at Joseph with admiration. "You're amazing. You cleaned so fast and so well. James and I are really lucky to have you."

Joseph smiled modestly and shook his head. "I just did what I could. These chores are no big deal for me."

Noticing the garbage bag in her hand, Joseph immediately stepped forward to take it. "Is this the kitchen trash? I'll take care of it. Once James is done with his shower, I'll take out the bathroom and living room trash too." He placed the garbage bag by the door, ready to handle it later.

Emily was touched by his actions. She knew he was doing this not just to share the chores but to make their home more harmonious and warm.

"Joseph, you really don't have to work so hard," Emily said softly, her eyes filled with gratitude, "You've already done so much today."

Joseph waved his hand, indicating that she shouldn't worry. "Emily, it's okay. Didn't you say we're family? Doing what I can is what I should do."

Emily felt even more moved. She knew his words were sincere, not just polite. So she nodded, quietly looking at Joseph, her heart filled with gratitude and respect for this new family member.

"By the way, Emily, this is for you." Joseph took an envelope from his back pocket and handed it to her.

Curiously, Emily took the envelope and opened it to find a stack of money. She then looked up at Joseph in surprise. "What's this for?"

Joseph smiled awkwardly and scratched his head. "This is my rent, Emily. I'm already very grateful that you let me stay here. But I can't live here for free, you have to take it. After all, I'd have to pay rent if I lived elsewhere."

Emily looked at the money in the envelope, then at Joseph, and handed the envelope back. "Joseph, I appreciate your gesture, but this is too much. We didn't let you stay here for your money."

Just as Joseph was about to speak, Emily gently pressed his hand and continued, "If you really want to contribute, you can take care of the utility bills. That can count as your rent."

Joseph understood her intention, which she didn't want him to feel burdened and gave him a way to contribute to the household. So he nodded and accepted her suggestion. "Alright, Emily, we'll do it your way."

Emily smiled and nodded, knowing he was a responsible person. "Then it's settled. Put this away, and don't mention rent again."

"Got it." Joseph nodded, knowing she meant well. He then took the envelope and put it back in his room.