My Wife, My Neighbor, Is Twenty Years Older

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When I was a kid, a newlywed couple moved in next door. My parents were warm and welcoming, and after our families became close, Jennifer Thompson, the gentle and kind lady next door, would often bring me little snacks. Her sweet nature immediately made me like her.

As the years passed and I hit my teenage years, I began to grow curious about relationships. I spent a lot of time at their house and often saw Jennifer taking care of her baby. Her curvy figure naturally became the source of my daydreams, and she firmly planted herself in my mind.

But one time, while I was watching Jennifer feed her child, lost in thought, her husband caught me staring. He whispered something to her, and I saw her blush immediately.

After that, he made up an excuse to send me home. From that point on, I felt that Jennifer started to distance herself from me, and the closeness between our families slowly faded away.

This growing distance didnt change how I felt. In fact, it only made me like her even more.

When I was nineteen, during my first summer break from college, their marriage hit the rocks, and one day they had a huge fight. I saw Jennifer run out, crying, and head for the rooftop of the Westwood Apartments. I was really worried she might do something drastic, so I followed her.

When I got to the rooftop, I found Jennifer huddled in a corner, sobbing uncontrollably, her whole body shaking. Seeing her like that broke my heart. I hated her husband at that momenthow could he not appreciate such an amazing woman?

I summoned all my courage and approached her. Jennifer, dont cry. That man isnt worth your tears.

She looked up, surprised to see me there.

Seeing her face covered in tears, I couldnt bear it. I dont know what came over me, but I blurted out, Jennifer, dont cry! He doesnt deserve you!

What?

Jennifer looked at me in shock.

Gathering more courage, I dropped the formalities. Jennifer, why dont you just divorce him? When I graduate, Ill marry you!

She was stunned, looking at me in complete disbelief.

What are you talking about? she finally asked.

I... I like you! I said, my heart racing.

I had no idea where this boldness came from, but Ill never forget the look of shock on her face.

Youre just a kid. You dont understand anything, Jennifer said as she stood up, trying to leave.

But just as she passed by, I grabbed her hand.

Let go! she demanded, her face flushed with embarrassment as she tried to pull away. What are you doing?

I... I was so nervous I couldnt think straight. I didnt know why I was being so impulsive, but in that moment, I made a bold decision.

I pulled her into a hug and kissed her.

That kiss was my first, but it wasnt sweet. Suddenly, Jennifer bit my lip.

Ouch!

I yelped in pain, immediately letting her go.

Before I could say anything else

You little jerk!

Smack! Jennifer slapped me hard across the face and ran off, crying.

That slap snapped me back to reality. I was filled with regret, constantly replaying the scene in my head, asking myself, What the hell did I just do?

I was terrified she would tell my parents or, worse, her husband. I couldnt go home that night. Instead, I spent the entire night on the rooftop, too scared to face anyone.

It wasnt until late that night that my worried parents came looking for me. Jennifer came along with them.

Luke, whats gotten into you? my mom asked, panicked.

Luke, dont scare us like this! Sure, you didnt get into your dream college, but life is long

They assumed I was upset about not getting into the college I wanted and thought I was in a dark place. Their concern was touching, but all I could think about was Jennifer.

I glanced at her from the corner of my eye. When our gazes met, she quickly looked away and left without a word. But I knewshe hadnt told anyone about what happened.

When I started college, I ended up dating a girl named Amy Summers. She was from the same city as me, and we went to school together. It didnt take long for us to become a couple.

For a while, I thought Id moved on from Jennifer.

But when I came home during the summer break, things next door had gotten worse. The fights between Jennifer and her husband were getting louder and more frequent. I could even hear the sounds of things breaking.

Suddenly, all the memories of Jennifer came flooding back. I realized I had never truly forgotten her, and every moment we shared was still etched in my mind.

At dinner, I casually asked, Whats going on with Mr. and Mrs. Thompson? They seem to be fighting a lot lately.

The seven-year itch, maybe, my dad said with a shrug.

You dont know what youre talking about, my mom chimed in, shaking her head. Its because he failed at his business.

Business? I asked.

Yeah, he and a friend tried to start an import/export company, but it went under. They lost everything and now owe tens of thousands.

My mom added, I even saw a realtor showing their house earlier todaytheyre selling it to pay off the debt.

Hearing this, I felt awful.

I wanted to help her.

That night, I reached out to a friend, and we found summer jobs. My parents were supportive, seeing me so motivated.

At the end of the month, I earned my first paycheck$2,800.

Most people would probably use that money to treat themselves or buy something nice.

But I stood in front of their house, pacing at the stairs, clutching that money in my hands.

When her husband left the house, I knocked on the door.

Jennifer answered, looking exhausted. Whats up? she asked when she saw me standing there.

I...

I couldnt help but think back to that night on the rooftop, and my face turned red. I handed her an envelope filled with cash. Jennifer, Im sorry for how I acted before. I was immature. I know your family is struggling financially right now. I earned this money working this summerplease, take it.

I stuffed the money into her hands and bolted back to my house.

Little did I know that this simple gesture would change everything between usand turn me into a man.

After giving Jennifer the money, I rushed home and tried to sleep early that night.

But I couldnt.

The next morning, when my parents had left for work, the doorbell rang.

Who is it? I asked as I opened the door.

Jennifer stood there, looking at me with a soft smile.

You silly boy, she said, handing me back the envelope of money. I appreciate your kindness, but you need to keep this.

I tried to refuse, but she wouldnt hear it. As we both tugged at the envelope, I accidentally brushed against her. My face flushed instantly.

She, too, stood there awkwardly, unsure of what to say.

If you keep this up, Ill get mad, she finally said, trying to stay serious.

I just really want to help you get through this, I replied earnestly.

Youre such a sweet boy. If only he were half as thoughtful as you

Her words trailed off, and I could see a deep sadness in her eyes.

Seeing her like that tugged at my heart.

For a moment, the air between us was still. Neither of us said anything.

Finally, I stammered, Why dont you come in and sit down for a while?

I cant take the money, though, she insisted, handing the envelope back.

I didnt push it. Instead, I invited her inside.

She sat down on the couch, looking around. Its been a while since Ive been in your house.

Yeah, I agreed with a smile. Can I get you something to drink? Tea? Coffee?

You have coffee? she asked, surprised.

I do. I picked up some while working at the grocery store. Let me make you a cup.

Thanks, she said with a nod.

I went to the kitchen and brewed her some coffee. When I brought it back, she took the cup, but instead of drinking, she stared at it for a moment before placing it on the table.

Time flies, doesnt it? I remember when we first moved here, you were just a little kid. And now, youre about to finish your second year of college, she said softly.

Yeah, Ill be twenty soon, I replied.

Your birthdays coming up, right?

Yep. My parents are throwing a small party for me next Sunday.

Jennifer looked at me with her usual warmth. Do you want anything special for your birthday? Maybe I can get you a gift.

Hearing that, my heart skipped a beat. Id just like you to come to the party. I dont really need a gift.

Are you sure? Jennifer smiled gently. You dont want anything else?

Well... I hesitated.

Given her financial situation, I didnt want to burden her with getting me a present. But deep down, I still wanted something from herit would mean more to me than any other gift.

Before I could figure out what to say, she stood up and said, Ive never seen your room before. Mind showing me around?

Sure, I replied without thinking, leading her to my room.

Sorry for the mess, I said awkwardly, glancing around.

When I turned back to look at her, I was shocked.

Jennifer was leaning against the doorand she had locked it behind her.