The Neighbor

Chapter 80

The rhythmic sound of rain tapping against the windows fills the villa as the storm rolls in, creating a cozy, soothing atmosphere. The morning light is muted by the gray clouds outside, casting a soft, diffused glow over the bedroom. The sliding doors leading to the patio are slightly ajar, letting in the crisp scent of rain mixed with the salty tang of the ocean.

You're sprawled out on the bed, Wanda straddling your hips, her bare legs on either side of you, her hair falling around her like a fiery curtain. The sheet pools lazily around her waist, forgotten as the two of you engage in a surprisingly intense game of thumb war.

Your tongue peeks out in concentration, your thumb hovering just above hers as you anticipate her next move. "You're not winning this one, love," you mutter, your eyes narrowing playfully.

"Oh, please," Wanda scoffs, her green eyes sparkling with mischief. "You couldn't beat me on your best day."

Her thumb darts forward, nearly pinning yours, but you're quick, managing to escape her trap with a triumphant laugh. "Nice try," you tease, sticking your tongue out at her.

Her lips curl into a smirk as she shifts slightly, her hips pressing down against yours in a way that momentarily distracts you. "What was that?" she says innocently. "I didn't quite catch it."

"Cheater," you accuse, but the laughter in your voice betrays you.

"Strategist," she counters, her grin widening. "There's a difference."

Your thumb surges forward, pinning hers down just as she's distracted by her own teasing. "One, two, three!" you count triumphantly, holding her thumb down until the victory is undeniable. "And that's how it's done."

Wanda gasps dramatically, placing a hand over her heart. "I demand a rematch."

"Nope," you reply, grinning up at her. "Winner gets bragging rights."

She leans forward, her hands pressing into the mattress on either side of your head, her hair creating a curtain around your faces. "Fine," she murmurs, her lips brushing lightly against yours. "But I'll be coming for those bragging rights later."

You hum against her lips, your hands sliding up to rest on her waist. "Looking forward to it."

The rain continues to fall outside, the sound mingling with your soft laughter. Wanda stays perched on your hips, her fingers lazily tracing patterns on your shoulders as she gazes down at you, her expression filled with warmth.

"Do we have to leave tomorrow?" she asks quietly, her voice carrying a wistfulness that tugs at your heart.

You reach up, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "I wish we didn't," you admit. "But we'll bring this feeling back with us. Home isn't just a place—it's us."

Wanda smiles, leaning down to press a tender kiss to your lips. "You always know what to say."

You grin against her lips. "I've had a great teacher."

The rain taps softly against the windows, a rhythmic melody that blends with the occasional rumble of thunder in the distance. Wanda falls off your lap to lay beside you on her side, her head propped up by her hand, her auburn hair falling in soft waves over her shoulder and brushing the sheets. Her green eyes shine with a quiet curiosity as she watches you, her fingers trailing lazily along your collarbone, leaving a warmth in their wake.

Her touch is comforting, grounding, and you can't help but turn your head to look at her fully. Her gaze holds you, patient and tender, as if she's silently inviting you to say what's on your mind. You take a deep breath, the words forming slowly.