Hans and Greta seemed like the perfect tenants — kind, responsible, and full of fascinating stories from their life in the Netherlands. But when they suddenly left, their hasty departure and strange behavior left me wondering what they were hiding in the apartment.

I met Hans and Greta on a rainy Tuesday. Despite the apartment’s bare concrete floors, they were eager to move in and offered to install new flooring themselves. I agreed, covering the cost of materials.

Over the next year, they were ideal tenants. Rent was always on time, and the apartment was spotless. However, they began acting strangely as the year ended. One day, they handed me the keys and abruptly left.

Curious, I checked the apartment and was shocked to find the flooring gone, revealing the bare concrete again. I texted Hans, asking what happened.

Hans replied, explaining it was a Dutch custom to take the flooring when moving out. They had also left urgently due to a family emergency. I was stunned but understood their cultural difference.

Despite the odd situation, I replaced the flooring and remembered Hans and Greta fondly. Their unique customs and warm hospitality had left a lasting impression.

Weeks later, I received a letter from them, inviting me to visit the Netherlands. Their kindness and the memories of their tenancy made me smile.

Planning my trip, I felt grateful for the unexpected bond formed with Hans and Greta. Their story reminded me of the richness of cultural differences and the connections we make along the way.