Prologue
Will
As I strolled through the empty house, I imagined how it would look with furniture and decorations. As the movers arrived, they wasted no time in bringing in the boxes. I quickly moved aside to avoid being trampled.
“Sorry, sir.”
I just waved him off like it was no big deal. I spent a significant amount of money to have these individuals swiftly and effectively move my belongings. I should’ve known to stay out of the way.
I decided to go outside and get some fresh air. I’ve always lived in apartments or condos. This was my first experience owning an entire property. Considering my status and lifestyle, it wasn’t as large as one might expect.
The driveway, while not overly long, did have a circular shape in front of the three-car garage. Small bushes lined the stone walkway leading to the front door. Which didn’t seem to require a lot of upkeep. Thank god, too, because a green thumb is something I do not have. The yard itself had several enormous oak trees, adding privacy to the house.
As I made my way along the driveway, the fragrance of newly cut grass wafted through the air. It’s not a smell commonly found in the city. Inhaling deeply, the aroma had a calming effect on me. This played a role in my decision to escape the chaos of city life. Reduced pollution, noise, and traffic, plus friendlier neighbors. That was my hope, at least.
I had the pleasure of meeting the kind couple who lived behind me. Having been married forever, they were now in their seventies. Okay, even though it seemed like forever to me, it was probably about forty years. I had to admit, they were fucking adorable, though. It even made a bachelor like me consider the idea of settling down. I never had any issues with being in a relationship. The issue was finding someone who was worth dedicating that much time to. With so many beautiful women out there, how can you truly determine if someone is the right one?
“Excuse me.”
The sweet, hesitant voice brought me back to reality. When I turned around, a petite blonde greeted me with stunning blue eyes and alluring curves in all the right places. Probably another neighbor, judging by the glass casserole dish she was carrying.
“I don’t mean to bother you. Just wanted to introduce myself. I’m Abby Martin. I live across the street,” with her hands occupied by the dish, she motioned with her head in the direction of her home.
“Will Wright. It’s nice to meet you.”
She quirked an eyebrow at me, “Your name is Mr. Wright?”
I was going to say something arrogant, but a loud voice interrupted me.
“Abigail! We have to go!”
I glanced behind her just as she turned around. A medium built man with a scowl and too much jewelry marched up my driveway.
“Sorry, Ev. I was just introducing myself to our new neighbor.”
Although she smiled back at me, her expression appeared more apologetic.
The man stopped before me and offered his hand. “Everett Ford.”
I shook it, “Will Wright.”
I couldn’t help but notice that they didn’t have the same last name.
With a curt nod, he shifted his focus back to Abby. “Ready? We’re already ten minutes behind schedule.”
“Yes,” she began to turn, then shook her head and looked back at me, “Sorry, this is for you.”
“What is it?” I picked up the dish, filled with a mouthwatering aroma.
“It’s a chicken casserole. I thought you’d like it more than a pie.”
I let out a low chuckle. “I didn’t think people actually did this.”
“Abby does.”
I glanced at the man next to her, who was already getting on my nerves. It wasn’t solely because of my intense attraction to this stunningly quiet woman. It was because he was clearly an ass.
“Well, thank you Abby.”
Dickweed began to walk away.
“You’re welcome. I thought you might appreciate a homemade meal. You come across as someone who prefers takeout.”
She subtly scanned me from head to toe before walking away.
Did my sweet neighbor just check me out? Damn, I hope so.
My body instantly responded to her.
Before I had the chance to thank her once more, she hurried down the driveway to catch up with him, the person I was hoping would soon be her ex-boyfriend.
It had been a few days and although I hadn’t finished unpacking; I had at least arranged the furniture. I had just picked up a beer and was preparing to go through some boxes when I heard loud music. As soon as I glanced outside through my patio door, the scent of a grill greeted me.
I couldn’t stop laughing when I realized my seventy-year-old neighbors were throwing a party. I put on some sandals and walked through my backyard to the fence that divided us. Even though they were a bit shorter, I had no problem seeing over the fence. I saw them both smiling at me when I glanced over. I noticed two other couples as well.
“Who is making all this racket? I thought this was a nice, quiet neighborhood.”
Betty lifted her margarita glass at me while Tom glanced up from the grill. He waved me over with the tongs.
“Come on over, son! There is plenty to go around.”
The smile that spread across my face almost made my cheeks hurt. I was unexpectedly surprised by my own excitement to hang out with them.
As soon as I entered the backyard, the stunning array of flowers captivated me. There was also a little garden right next to the house. I spotted lettuce, tomatoes, and herbs.
As soon as Betty spotted me, she jumped out of her seat. She hooked her arm with mine and led me to the table full of food and drinks.
“This is our new neighbor, Will.” She gave my biceps a pat. “He’s quite the catch, isn’t he?”
I chuckled while the two ladies agreed.
Tom turned from the grill. “Really, Betts? I’m right here.”
Dismissing him with a wave, she introduced me to the others.
Betty and Iris were twins. Ron was Betty’s brother-in-law. Cora and Felix, the other couple, were friends they made at church.
“So…” she had me sit next to her, “How are you liking your new home?”
“It’s incredible. I love the area.” Tom handed me a beer, and I nodded in appreciation.
“Have you met any other neighbors?”
I realized this was my chance to get some information about Abby and that dumbass. One thing I know for sure is that older ladies enjoy gossiping.
“I met the couple across the street from me.” I acted like I was trying to remember their names.
“Oh! Abby and Everett.”
I nodded.
“Sweet girl. Not sure about him, though. He seems to keep to himself.”
Iris leaned forward as if we were being bugged. “I heard he got kicked out of the police academy for anger issues.”
Betty waved it off, saying, “That’s just a rumor,” then she took a sip and thought, “I guess I wouldn’t be surprised. He doesn’t seem like the nicest person.”
“Are they engaged or married?” I attempted to ask casually, while taking a sip of beer.
Tom’s side-eye and smirk made it clear that I wasn’t fooling anyone.
“No. I believe they are just dating. Abby is the one who owns the house.”
That was good to know. At least I’d be seeing her more than him.
“What is it you do, Will?” As she spoke, Iris got up to pour more margaritas from the pitcher.
“I am a lawyer.”
The women were swooning with delight, while the men showed their appreciation by nodding.
“Impressive, son.”
I smiled at Tom and shrugged. “It was a lot of work, but it’s something I always wanted to do.”
“Oh!” With more force than intended, Betty placed her glass on the table, causing margarita to splash. She just kept going like nothing happened. “Do you think you can get information on Everett?”
Tom rolled his eyes. “Betts, he’s a lawyer, not an FBI agent.”
She shrugged as if it was still a legitimate question.
“I’ll see what I can do,” I smiled and winked at her.
Of course, there wasn’t much I could do. Unless he was somehow connected to a lawsuit, which didn’t seem that unlikely, I wouldn’t have access to much information.
A few too many beers, one delicious burger and a plate of pasta salad later, I stood up to leave.
“Leaving already?” Betty gave her best puppy dog face.
“Yes. You ladies are trouble.”
They had a good giggle while I was giving the guys a handshake. I gave the ladies a hug and a kiss on the cheek, then stumbled back to my place with a plate full of leftovers.
Thank the Lord I live right next door.
As I was climbing the deck stairs, a sound caught my attention in the front yard. No way I could hear that soft shuffling noise in the city. But here, everything just echoed.
I went around the side of the house to the front. “Abby?”
She jumped at the sound of my voice. “Oh! I didn’t realize you were home. I rang the doorbell.”
“I was at Betty and Tom’s.” I held up the plate. “I just got back.”
She laughed. “Seems no one thinks you can cook.”
I smiled but didn’t respond, still wondering what she was doing here.
She cleared her throat. “I got some of your mail.” She held up a small stack of envelopes.
“Oh, come in,” I gestured for her to follow me into the house.
I grabbed the mail and set the leftovers down on the counter. “Are you hungry?”
“Umm,” she glanced around like she was about to get caught doing something wrong, “Actually, yes. I’m starving.”
I handed her a fork, and she immediately took a large bite of pasta.
“Ev has me on this really strict diet. I feel like I haven’t truly eaten for days.”
I immediately caught her wording. I leaned against the counter and crossed my arms. “He has you on a diet?”
She nodded, “He’s a physical trainer and health is very important to him.”
I looked her up and down, wondering who the fuck he was looking at, because the woman in front of me looked pretty damn good. Since we just met, it wasn’t my place to say anything. Even if I strongly disagreed.
“Well, eat as much as you want. I still have half a casserole my crazy neighbor made for me.”
She spit out her food and laughed at my comment. I offered her a napkin. She cleaned herself up but, of course, missed a little sauce on the corner of her mouth. I immediately had the urge to wipe my thumb along her bottom lip.
I inwardly groaned.
I was too drunk for this. My desire for this woman was hitting me full force, and I didn’t think I had the strength to stop myself. So, I didn’t.
I took a step forward. It was the closest we’ve ever been to each other. Her sweet, seductive scent took over my senses. With a questioning gaze, she looked up at me, and I could almost hear the pounding of her heart. It was impossible for me to stop now. I know when someone wants me. Abby’s body language gave away her secret, despite her attempts to keep it hidden.
I lifted my hand, “You have some sauce…” As soon as my thumb touched her soft lips and she slightly opened her mouth, I was a goner.
I moved my hand to the back of her neck. Keeping her still, I leaned in closer. I needed to taste her. My body had control, despite my mind’s desperate pleas to stop.
I brought my mouth down. With our lips barely touching, I teased us both.
The buzzing of a phone startled both of us, making us jump back. I was certain that it wasn’t mine. I saw Abby scramble to pull it out of her pocket. I knew the moment was lost.
FUCK!
She cleared her throat. “I have to go.”
Sliding across the counter, she was trying to put some space between us.
“Abby.”
She hurried toward the door. “Thank you for the food.”
“Abby!”
She left so quickly that I couldn’t even catch up to her. I ran my fingers through my hair and shook my head.
So close.
Well, I wasn’t giving up yet. It was clear she wanted me. That scumbag she was with didn’t deserve her, and it was obvious he wasn’t treating her right. That was going to change. Regardless of whether she chose me or not, my main goal was to get her away from that dirtball.
