When Tyler asked me to move in, I thought we were building a life together. Six weeks later, I opened the fridge to find an invoice for rent, utilities, and even a “comfort fee.” Tyler owned the apartment, so what was I really contributing to?We’d been dating for almost two years, and I was always at his place. It seemed natural when he suggested I move in. I agreed, believing it was the start of our future together,

I helped make the place feel like home, cooking meals, arranging photos, and adjusting to his routines. For weeks, everything seemed perfect until I found the invoice in the fridge. Tyler wanted me to pay for rent, utilities, and even a “wear and tear” fee. It felt like a slap in the face—he hadn’t invited me into his life; he was charging me to live in his space.I tried to stay calm. I smiled and told him I’d figure it out. Behind his back, I called Jordan, an old friend between leases.