Woman with Unique Health Condition Fights for Home Comfort, But When She Collapses The Stakes Skyrocket.
In a test of hospitality and friendship, the Original Poster (OP) opens her home to a close friend in need, only to clash over the house’s thermostat due to OP’s unique health condition. The tension rises as compromises fail and OP’s health is put on the line.
A Comfortably Cool Home
OP, a 28-year-old woman, lived comfortably alone in her small home, enjoying the company of her two cats. Due to a health condition that made her overheat easily and sweat profusely, OP preferred to maintain her house at 63 degrees Fahrenheit. Adjustments were made to a warmer 66 degrees during the rare instances when guests visited.
The Friend in Need
A close friend of OP’s, a 29-year-old woman, lost her home due to circumstances beyond her control. Empathetic to her plight, OP extended an offer for her friend to live in her guest bedroom until she found another place. This turned out to be the beginning of a tumultuous cohabitation.
The Uncomfortable Compromise
For about a month, OP maintained her home at a warmer 68 degrees for the comfort of her friend. However, her friend, unsatisfied, would frequently increase the temperature to 75 degrees, causing significant discomfort for OP. This was a sacrifice she silently bore for a while.
The Thermostat Confrontation
Six weeks since her friend moved in, OP declared that the temperature would be lowered to 68 degrees. This was intended as a compromise, ensuring her semi-comfort while also considering her friend’s needs. OP instructed her friend not to adjust the thermostat further.
The Heated Argument
Her friend, however, didn’t react well to the new temperature adjustment. Claiming that 68 degrees was not livable, she aggressively insisted on her right to comfort. This disagreement sparked the first heated conflict between them.
The Right to Comfort
OP gently reminded her friend of her rent-free status. However, the houseguest insisted that 75 degrees was the norm and that 68 degrees was an unreasonable request. This unyielding perspective marked a turning point in their relationship.
The Offer Rejected
OP offered to purchase a heater specifically for her friend’s guestroom. This was met with additional resistance, as her friend believed she deserved comfort throughout the house, not just in one room.
The Eviction Notice
At this point, OP hadn’t initially specified a move-out date for her friend. But the escalating disagreement led OP to suggest that it might be best for her friend to find another place to stay in the coming month.
The Insistent Claim
The friend refused to accept the eviction notice and claimed OP was being unreasonable. She insisted that her preference for a 75-degree house was normal and OP’s preference was not. Despite OP’s attempts at compromise and providing solutions, her friend remained unyielding.
The Night of Confrontation
One night, during a particularly tense disagreement about the thermostat, OP’s health took a turn for the worse. Overheated and distressed, she suffered a fainting spell, emphasizing the severity of her health condition.
The Emergency Room
In the emergency room, OP recovered but received a stern warning from the doctor about managing her environment. This experience brought to light the pressing need for her to maintain her colder living conditions. OP decided to reclaim her living space once and for all.
The Unwanted Guest
The houseguest was now officially uninvited to continue her stay. OP made it very clear she had to be out by the end of the week. The houseguest, also having had enough of the drama, agreed to the demands and moved out the next day.
The Return to Normalcy
With her ‘friend’ finally gone, OP was able to return her home’s temperature back to her preferred 63 degrees. The house was peaceful and comfortable once again, inhabited only by OP and her two beloved cats.
Was The Woman’s Behavior Appropriate?
OP wondered if she should have handled the situation differently. She posted her story online for public feedback. The readers in the forum had strong opinions on the matter. Here are some of their responses:
Forum Responds
One reader said, “Her choices are to remain homeless or stay with you for free? Beggars can’t be choosers.”
Another Commenter Thinks
Another responder wrote, “If she’s that cold, she can use a blanket, buy herself an electric blanket, use a heater, or wear socks. Seventy-five degrees is hot for inside a house, no matter the time of year.”
A Third View on The Story
A different person stated, “I am also heat intolerant and wouldn’t put up with this entitled behavior. Show her the door.”
A Final Perspective on the Matter
Another reader commented, “Remind her that YOU have a right to be comfortable too, and since it’s your house and she’s not paying rent, you get to choose the temperature.”
What Do You Think?
What are your thoughts on their actions?
What would you have done in this situation?
This story is inspired by a Reddit thread.
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