Just trying to get back into writing and so I am posting this so that I can have something posted. Been too worried about making things perfect that I never could get anything done.
Yes it's a short little story, but I wrote it in one night.
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Everyone is 18+.
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The heat of the day was just losing its edge as I finished up working in the yard. It was a good day off, working in the yard, even if it left me hot and sweaty. As I start gathering my tools, I see a bright a bright spot, even with evening approaches.
My neighbor, a little thing with shining eyes and a brighter smile; she knew how to get down to work, which I had known from the times I had stopped by and seen her work in her yard. She knew how to work in a way that made me think she probably knew how to let loose and play. But I tried to keep those thoughts under control; at least under control when she was around.
"Hey," I call from the back yard as she approaches from the path, "Let yourself in, I'll see you in a second."
She turned her head towards me, jumping a bit, "Oh, Sure thanks. I'll pour us some drinks." She smiled. She had a way of smiling that could make you feel like it was just for you.
I shake my head as I try not to stare too much as she disappears around the corner and finish up in the yard. It only takes me a couple minutes but by the time I am in I find her leaning on my kitchen counter with two glasses of lemonade and a container, not a small one, of what looks like leftovers: grilled veggies and potatoes and what might be chicken.
"To what do I owe the pleasure?"
"Oh I might have accidentally," her eyes light up at the word, "made too much for dinner and needed some help."
I lean against the counter and pull a glass towards me. "I am always here to help a neighbor in need."
"Mmm I do appreciate that." Then she let out a laugh as I coughed, taking a drink. "Sorry, should have warned you that they are a little.."
"spiked?"
"Yeah." The corners of her mouth twitch as she tries not to smile too large, and I suspect she made sure not to warn me.
"It's ok, I can handle a woman with surprises. Makes things interesting."
She opens up the leftovers, "You can handle a woman huh? You sure spend time alone for someone that can handle a woman so well."
I pull out two plates and slide them to her, "Maybe I am just looking for someone who can keep up."
"I'll keep that in mind." She pushes a filled plate back to me.
I take a bite and nod to her. The rest of the meal goes similarly, some friendly flirting broken up by enjoying our food.
I grab her plate once she finishes. "I hope you left room for something sweet."
"I can always make room, for something sweet."
"Good, I'll make sure to fill you up then." I serve us up a couple slices of pie. "What kind of a host would I be if I didn't fill my guests needs?"
"Oh you don't have to worry about that. I always get what I need." She takes a bite of the pie smirking.
"I bet you do."
Of course, there is pie in front of us now, and we dig in in silence until our plates are clean. I snatch her plate before she can grab mine.
"Hey I was-"
"Nope, you cooked. Go sit, relax."
She sticks out her tongue and heads to my couch and I only spend a moment watching her leave.
* * *
The dishes only take a few minutes, and setting the last one on a drying rack I call to her. "You mind waiting a few minutes? I need to rinse off before I go getting my couch all sweaty."
"Just abandoning your guest?" She teases, "I thought you were trying to be a good host."
I run my tongue over my teeth and think a moment, "You could always join me." I watch her for a reaction.
I see her pause, suck in her cheeks, and then look me over. "How could I refuse an offer like that?"
I feel myself grinning like an idiot. "Follow me." I lead her through my room to my bathroom. I turn to see her leaning against the doorframe.
"That's quite a sho-"
"Incredible." I let out, looking her over.
"-ower. Oh." Her cheeks redden a bit. "Really?"
"I think it is obvious you are. You're radiant."