You need to explain to your roommate why you used their food without asking.

**Question:**
You used your roommate’s expensive cheese and accidentally finished it. Your roommate, Max, is upset. Write an email to Max. In your email:
– Apologize for using the food
– Explain what happened honestly
– Offer to replace it or make it right

**Model Answer:**

**To:** max@email.com
**Subject:** Explanation and apology – your cheese

Hey Max,

I feel really bad about what happened with your cheese, and I owe you an honest explanation and a real apology.

Here is what happened. On Thursday night, I had a really rough day at work – my project got cancelled, my boss criticized me in front of everyone, and I came home feeling completely defeated. I wanted to make myself a nice dinner to feel better, so I started making pasta. I saw your cheese in the fridge and thought I would just grate a little bit on top. But then I kept adding more, and before I knew it, I had used almost the whole block. I honestly did not realize how much I was using until it was too late. I know that sounds like a stupid excuse, but it is the truth – I was distracted and not thinking clearly.

I know that cheese was expensive, and I know you were saving it for the dinner party you are hosting this weekend. I feel terrible that my thoughtlessness has put you in a difficult position. This is completely my fault, and I should have asked first or at least texted you to check.

Here is how I want to make it right. I went to the store this morning and bought an identical replacement – same brand, same type, same size. It is in the fridge right now with your name on it. I also bought you a six-pack of your favourite beer as an extra apology.

I am really sorry, Max. I will not use your food without asking again. I have learned my lesson. Let me know if there is anything else I can do to make this up to you.

Talk soon,
Sam