The phone rings and takes you away from the computer. You glance at the clock and realize that noon is quickly approaching with the family expected back for lunch soon. the sun beaming in the window also tells you that today is a day to be spent outside.
You pick up on the third ring and answer, "Hello."
"Hi Judy, its Sally from across the street. Are you busy? I have a box I need to move and no one is around and I could really use your help for a couple of minutes."
"Hey Sally. Ummmm, sure but you need to give me a couple of minutes ok?"
"Of course. But if you can come before noon, I can offer you lunch for your help."
"Sounds great, I'll be there in about 15."
You rush back to the computer, ending your on-line chat and shutting down. You place last nights leftovers into the oven and jot a quick note for Ralph and Amanda. You wrap a sweater loosely around your shoulders and walk across the street with the warm sun on your face.
Sally opens the door and greets you with a warm smile. "Hey I really appreciate this. I forgot all about it and I need to get this box into the garage so it can be picked up tomorrow morning along with the rest of the trash."
You give her a quick kiss hello on the cheek, flashing back weeks ago when you shared several bottles of wine with her and the hubbies as part of an impromptu snow day party. Your thoughts still warmed by your earlier on-line chat reawakening those desires that had accompanied that "more than just friendly" buss.
Sally is two or three older than you and you've been neighbors for the last 10 years. The families quickly becoming friends with both sets of your children spending much time together as well. You've shared many a fond memory and she's been someone you could call upon when needed.
Her hand touches your elbow as you give her the kiss and she frowns into your eyes as your face retreats. "I really hate that you're going to move away next month. Its not easy to find good neighbors let alone good friends in this day and age."
Your smile has a tinge of sadness as her words ring true and you both gaze silently for a moment, measuring the truth in her words.
"But we're not moving that far. We can still stay in touch. You'll be the first on our list for the housewarming party as well."
"I will look forward to that, seeing your new home, but I still can't help but wish you weren't going."
Hands joining, squeezing. Neither of you daring to say anything more as the sadness of parting rears in your minds.
She leads you upstairs where a large box of old clothes is next to the wall of her bedroom. You find yourself sneaking a look at her butt, the memory of that party returning along with your lustful thoughts.
You smile to yourself recalling how you described her big booty butt to your on-line lover, and how you wished that your husband had indicated a willingness to explore the bounds of your relationship with your neighbors that day. Kisses being exchanged willingly and with some passion at your parting.
The box is heavier than it appeared and you both struggle down the stairs with it. At one point, you thought you were going to stumble backwards and another she almost dropped in over the railing. Catching yourselves in time, tossing casual insults at the other to lay faux blame. Giggles following the insults.
Finally the box is laid to rest and you move to the kitchen. Sally has lunch ready, a simple shrimp salad with a citrus based dressing. And beside the plates, an open bottle of wine. Red and familiar.
Her eyes shine as your pleasant surprise of the wine dances across your face. She pours you a glass then one for herself. "Cheers!"
