The Other Guy: A Textdoor Neighbor Romance

by Van Wyk, Jennifer

  “For what it’s worth, from the picture we saw, she’s beautiful.”

  “Now that’s something I can agree with you on.”

  The guys smile and the mood lightens. Our waitress delivers our appetizers and we order another pitcher of beer. I don’t hesitate to dive in, loading up my plate.

  “You’re eating fried food now,” Grady teases.

  “I’ve always eaten fried food.”

  Drew shakes his head. “Not for a while, you haven’t. You’re all about clean eating constantly.”

  “So?”

  “So… it’s not a big deal, and I know we’re supposed to shy away from the topic, but you’re different since you met Sierra.”

  “Yeah?”

  Grady agrees, “For sure. Not that you sucked before.”

  “Nice.” I chuckle.

  “You know what we mean. You’re a little more laid back. Relaxed.”

  He’s definitely right about that. I realized last night that I have always thought I couldn’t have one thing without the other. Owning a gym, I thought I had to be this perfect specimen of health in order for people to take me seriously. That I couldn’t indulge or even have cheat days. It was stifling. But in the short time I’ve known Sierra, she’s helped me to realize that life doesn’t need to be taken so seriously. It’s not as if members walk into the gym and analyze me or my food intake, they don’t ask me how often I work out.

  For the rest of the night we eat and drink, play darts and a couple games of pool.

  It’s exactly what I needed tonight. Even with the way it started, I feel more relaxed and ready to take Sierra on our first official date.

  CHAPTER FIFTEEN

  SIERRA

  “I’m so glad we could get together. Man, this is so relaxing. It’s been forever since I’ve just sat with a friend and ate and chatted.”

  “Me, too,” I tell Mallory as we clink our coffee cups together.

  “Tell me about yourself.”

  “Ugh, really? Why don’t you tell me about your husband and kid? A girl, right?”

  She winks and clicks her tongue at me. “I know what you’re doing but I’ll let it slide because I don’t mind talking about them one bit.”

  “Pictures?”

  “Only like ten thousand.” She giggles.

  When I arrived at the diner this morning, I sat down and resisted the urge to fidget and look around the room nervously. I haven’t had a friend only for myself, someone I wasn’t introduced to through a boyfriend, in so long. Too long.

  Last night Jack texted me around eleven, apologizing for the late night text but he wanted to say hello. He’d just gotten home from hanging out with his cousin and brother-in-law and told me he was happy that I was getting together with Mallory. He’d never met her but he’d seen her grandmother’s store and thought that his mom may have gone in a few times when she was visiting.

  I’m glad, Sierra. I know how important it is for women to have other women around. Enjoy it.

  I stared at his text and blinked away tears. I wasn’t even sure why that simple statement had made me emotional. Just having someone support something as common as having a friend feels sadly foreign but incredibly welcome.

  Mallory hands her phone to me with a picture pulled up. “This is Paisley. She’s three.”

  Paisley could be in an ad for kids’ clothing. She’s adorable and her smile is captivating. With her light brown hair in ringlets that barely graze her shoulders and light green eyes.

  “And Austin,” she says, reaching over to swipe a few times on her phone to a picture of her family of three. “We met in high school. Fell in love.”

  “Happily ever after.” I grin, sipping my coffee.

  “Kind of. It wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows, obviously, but I always figured a good relationship wouldn’t be good if it didn’t have to weather a few storms. We broke up once after we graduated high school and left for different colleges. I didn’t last and moved back home. College life wasn’t for me, no matter how hard I tried to make it work. I took night classes and worked during the day but even that just fell flat. I couldn’t decide what I wanted to do or get a degree in.” She shrugs and I stare at her, my mouth open.

  “Are you serious?”

  “Yeah, I know. Kind of goes against everything our generation was taught, huh? I felt like such an outsider but could never justify spending that kind of money on college if I had no reason to be there.”

  “I’m not asking if you’re serious because I’m judging you. I actually did the exact same thing. All my life I thought I had to have a college degree to be successful but nothing ever clicked with me.”

  “No way.”

  “Yup. I guess we have more in common than we thought.”

  “Wow. So anyway, Austin came home for the summer the year after his freshman year in college and from then on, we stayed together. During the year apart, we discovered more about ourselves and the time helped.” She lifts her left hand and wiggles her fingers. Her ring setting isn’t flashy or large but it is beautiful. “Got married two summers after he graduated. We had to go through two rounds of IVF to get Paisley which sucked financially and emotionally, but obviously was worth it. We’re trying for another hoping it happens easier this time.”

  “Oh, man. That’s rough.”

  “It was. But we had a great support system and it made us stronger. Austin works for a really great company roofing houses and businesses. He’s also really involved in the worship team at our church. I work at the church in the children’s ministry, too. A lot of people were praying us through.”

  “I love that. I really haven’t had a lot of experience in church but my uncle Kyle goes every Sunday and he asked if I’d go.”

  She smiles and nods. “He goes to our church. He and Grandma sit together every week,” she adds and giggles.

  “Oh my.”

  “Oh, yeah. Right next to each other. Then they go out for lunch after. They act like they’re just friends. Everyone knows it’s a bunch of hooey, though.”

  We share a smile as our waitress drops off our spinach and mushroom quiche, fresh fruit, and croissants. “That’s kind of adorable, you know?”

  “Yeah, it is. I like that they don’t feel like it has to be this big production or define what they are.”

  “I like that, too. He’s never been married or really had any long-term relationships. I always wondered why.”

  “Grandma said he had a girlfriend for like five years when he was in his twenties.”

  I wasn’t alive then and have never heard anyone mention her. “That’s a long time ago.”

  “I know. I think he’s happy being alone.” She shrugs as she takes a big bite of her croissant. “Holy crap,” she mumbles, covering her mouth with her hand as her eyes roll.

  “Good?”

  “Not at all. You should let me eat yours so you don’t have to experience how disgusting this is.” She starts to reach over and I slap her hand away.

  “No way. I’m not sharing carbs.”

  “Good to know.”

  We eat and chat about nothing much in particular until our plates are cleared and our coffee is refilled, neither of us in a hurry to leave.

  “I was talking to Austin last night and want to run something by you.”

  “What’s that?”

  “What if we collaborate and bring our companies together? We could offer baby/kid/pet matching outfits. Or coordinating, like a cow and a cowboy or cowgirl. That type of thing. Super dog and Superman. Wouldn’t that be adorable?”

  I don’t even have to think on it before I reply, “Yes! Let’s do it!”

  “Really? I was so nervous to ask you. I don’t want you thinking I’m taking away from you or anything but I think we’d make a killing and it’d be so much fun.”

  I don’t mention the windfall of money that I received from Kyle a few days ago that we could use for a store or production space because I want to discuss it with him first. And maybe
Jack, too. I love living here already, but I don’t want Jack to think I’m chasing him. Not that he has the market on the town, and not that he’s given me any indication he wouldn’t want me living here (we are going on a date tonight after all), but I haven’t exactly had a great track record when it comes to relationships. I don’t want to do anything to mess it up before it has the chance to begin.

  I’m also not sure if I should save it to put a down payment on my own place to live. There’s too many questions up in the air right now, but one thing’s for certain, life is definitely looking up.

  “It will be a blast. And it’s not as if we’re only offering joint costumes, it will just be one of our options, right?”

  She nods excitedly. “Right. And maybe we can find someone down the line who does grown up stuff, too. I know either of us could, it’s just a matter of if we want to.”

  Mallory’s so animated and excited about the prospect of the business, her hands are flying all around her and her face is lit up like a Christmas tree. It’s infectious to be around and soon we’re both hunched over our phones, making notes and looking at each other’s online catalogues.

  By the time we leave the diner, each of us has had enough coffee we’re practically buzzing. We hug tightly, make a plan to get together next week for dinner at her house so I can meet her husband and daughter, to which she tells me to bring my uncle and Jack, if I feel comfortable.

  “Gah. I’m so so happy we met, Sierra. I know the reason you’re here is kind of sucky.”

  My body seizes up. “You know?”

  “Grandma told me and Kyle told her. I think he needed to vent because, man, he was ticked off at that ex of yours. He needed an outlet and didn’t want to burden you with it.”

  “I’m not upset he told her, just wish he wouldn’t have felt that way, I guess. I wish it wasn’t even a topic of conversation, you know?”

  She nods in understanding. “They’re close. They share a lot with each other and from what Grandma says, you’re like a daughter to him.”

  “Yeah. He’s been there for me my entire life. Even when my parents were a little flighty.”

  “He’s good people, for sure. But, Sierra, I can’t help but think that a larger power than either of us brought you to our town. It wasn’t just you visiting your uncle or finding out that awful stuff about your ex. You belong here.”

  I suck in a breath because I’ve never felt like I belonged anywhere. Not really. I was always on edge, no matter where I lived. But she’s right. Ever since I came here, even before I officially/unofficially moved in with Uncle Kyle, it’s felt like home to me. It wasn’t as if I was just visiting even when I was, but I didn’t realize it until just now. I feel a sense of belonging here simply walking the streets and sitting in a diner having brunch with a friend. I don’t feel out of place.

  “Thank you,” I say, bringing her in for another hug. “Next week?” I confirm, my voice wavering a little bit.

  “Yes. Absolutely.”

  “Have a great Saturday, Mallory.”

  “Have a wonderful date tonight.”

  “How did you…”

  “Grandma and Kyle,” we say in unison and burst out laughing.

  “I expect a full report soon.”

  I bite my lip to hold back smiling too big but it’s pointless. “You got it.”

  CHAPTER SIXTEEN

  JACK

  Sierra: What’s the dress code for tonight’s festivities?

  Me: Festivities, huh? You think I have something pretty big planned?

  Sierra: Don’t you?

  Me: Eh. I figured we’d share a tuna fish sandwich by the county dump.

  Sierra: **takes in a deep breath** Can’t wait. That’s like the perfect combination. Tuna breath and rotten garbage. It’s a recipe for a fun, delicious smelling evening.

  Me: I knew you’d get it.

  I can’t stop smiling. Haven’t been able to since I woke up this morning. Not even the threat of another snowstorm could bring me down today. I love that she gets it when I text her something like that and replies cheekily.

  Sierra: So now I know to dress casually and wear a mask.

  Me: Perfect. See you at 5.

  Sierra: 5? I thought you were picking me up at 6?

  Me: Changed my mind. It’s been a while since I’ve seen your cute face.

  Sierra: **blushes** You saying I’m cute?

  Me: You know that song: Beautiful, Crazy?

  Sierra: Yes! I love it!

  Me: That’s what I think about when I think of you.

  Sierra: Maybe be here a little early.

  Me: You got it. And by the way, yes, dress casual.

  Sierra: Sweatpants it is!

  Me: Then we’ll match.

  I’ll be disappointed if I don’t show up to Kyle’s house to see her wearing sweats and a mask over her mouth and nose.

  * * *

  I’m not disappointed. When Kyle opens the door, he’s sharpening a knife and is wearing his most stern expression that doesn’t even falter when Sierra comes around the corner wearing a hoodie that looks like Kyle wore it in the 70s, a pair of raggedy sweats and a paper mask that is absolutely homemade, considering it’s made out of printer paper and elastic hair ties. Her ears are pulling in at a weird angle and even though I can’t see her mouth, I know she’s smiling by the twinkle in her beautiful dark brown eyes.

  I place a hand on my chest. “I’ve never seen you look more beautiful.”

  “I paid attention to your clues about what to wear,” she says behind her mask.

  “And here I was afraid I’d be underdressed,” I say, gesturing to my own attire of paint-splattered sweatpants and a ratty old t-shirt that has actual holes in it. I froze my ass off walking up to the house but I knew it’d be worth it. Especially now that I see she continued on with our joke from earlier.

  “You look perfect. The exact image I hoped for on our first date.”

  I lean in close and kiss her cheek, squeezing her hip slightly. “First of many,” I whisper.

  “You two deserve each other. Weirdos,” Kyle says. “Here I thought I’d be able to do the cliché thing of asking what your intentions are with Sierra and putting the fear of God in you. But then you guys pull a stunt like this.” He tsks like he’s annoyed he didn’t get to scare me but it’s all in good fun. He places the knife down and walks away but then stops, turns around, and points at us. “Have fun! Stay out late. Make dumb choices. Drive fast and take chances. All the regular stuff I’m supposed to say, right?”

  “Exactly,” Sierra agrees with a wink. She looks me up and down and grins. “This date is already starting off great. I would have been seriously disappointed if you hadn’t showed up dressed like this.”

  Pulling off her mask, I drop it to the floor. “I was thinking the exact same thing.” I still have my hand on her hip and bring her closer by wrapping my other around her as well. “Hi.”

  “Hi.”

  “You really do look beautiful.”

  “Wow, if I look beautiful like this…”

  “You do. And not that I care, but did you want to change? I have my bag just outside the door.”

  “You were really prepared. What would you have done if I was all dressed up?”

  “Ran with it,” I tell her with a shrug. “But I’m glad to see that we’re on the same page.”

  “It is a good sign, huh?”

  “I’d like to think so. I’ll grab my bag and change while you do the same. Where’s the bathroom?”

  She points down the hall and I let her go while I step through the door to get my things.

  When I come out of the bathroom, Kyle’s waiting in the living room.

  “More appropriate for sure,” he says, approving of my new clothing. Jeans and a Henley. Nothing fancy but I’m comfortable and this is me. I figure if you need to dress up and pretend to be someone else on the first date, then it’s never going to work.

  I take a seat and cross one leg over my kn
ee. “Thanks. So how’re things?”

  “Good. Glad to have Sierra here. I don’t even mind the dog living with us.”

  Toby lifts his head off the couch and huffs. “Ha! Yeah, he’s got quite the personality, huh?”

  “That he does. But he’s kind of awesome.”

  “True.”

  “I told Sierra I was going to talk to you about this.”

  “Uh oh.”

  “Nothing bad. I’ve been thinking of changing up the menu at the bar. Everything we have is pretty much pre-made stuff. I’d like to expand a bit. Maybe bring on a cook and have a menu that’s a little more unique.”

  I lean forward on the couch. “Really?”

  “Yeah. It’s been on my mind for a while now but I think I’m ready. Could I hire you to help?”

  “What kind of help?”

  “Menu planning for one thing. Maybe dig in to your network of friends from culinary school for another.”

  Hmm. “I have a few ideas. Let me think on them. Let’s get together to talk it all out, though. And you’re not paying me.”

  “We’ll fight about that when the time comes.”

  I laugh. “Sounds like a plan.”

  “Have fun tonight. Don’t screw it up.”

  “Good advice. And I won’t.”

  “I got your word on that?”

  “You do.”

  “Fair enough. I like having her around and don’t want that to change.”

  “Noted.”

  “I’m ready!” Sierra announces. We turn to look at her and my breath catches. What I said earlier was true. She’s beautiful in anything, but standing before me in dark skintight jeans, a light purple tank top, and a thin black cardigan, she’s simply breathtaking.

  Simple.

  Breathtaking.

  Both at the same time and it’s her. She’s not overdone or fancy. Casual minus the face mask.

  “You look incredible,” I tell her, standing from the couch and moving toward her.

  She blushes, a pretty pink tinge on her cheeks appearing as she watches me take her in. Her hips flaring out just slightly, her thin tank doing nothing to hide the swell of her breasts. I couldn’t stop myself from kissing her if I wanted to, despite the audience.