A few days passed, and Sofia found herself gravitating more and more toward Jake's house. Whether it was walking Charlie, reading a book on her front porch, or simply glancing out her window, she couldn't help but hope for a chance encounter with him.
One evening, she decided to take a break from studying and head outside. The night was warm, with a cool breeze that hinted at the beginning of fall. Sofia sat on her porch steps, watching the streetlights flicker on one by one.
To her surprise, Jake appeared a few minutes later, carrying two mugs of steaming hot chocolate. "Hey, Sofia," he called, flashing that familiar smile. "Mind if I join you?"
She grinned, a little flustered but happy to see him. "Not at all."
Jake handed her one of the mugs and sat down beside her. "I figured it was the perfect night for hot chocolate. I didn't think you'd mind."
"I definitely don't mind," Sofia said, taking a sip and feeling the warmth spread through her.
They sat in silence for a while, the quiet comfort of each other's presence wrapping around them. The stars twinkled above, and the sound of crickets filled the air.
Jake turned to her, his expression serious for the first time since they'd met. "Can I ask you something?"
Sofia blinked, caught off guard by his sudden change in tone. "Of course."
"Why do you always sit out here alone?"
Sofia hesitated, surprised by the question. She wasn't sure how to answer, but there was something about Jake that made her want to open up. "I guess... I like the quiet. It's peaceful, and it helps me think. Sometimes, it's just nice to be alone with your thoughts."
Jake nodded, his gaze thoughtful. "I get that. Sometimes, I do the same thing. It's like the world slows down, and you can just... breathe."
Sofia smiled, appreciating the way he seemed to understand. "Exactly."
For a moment, they sat there, the silence between them filled with unspoken thoughts. It was in moments like these that Sofia realized just how easy it was to be around Jake. No pressure, no expectations—just a simple connection that felt natural.
YOU ARE READING
The Boy Who Lived Next Door
Roman d'amourSofia's summer was supposed to be like every other-quiet, predictable, and a little lonely. That is, until Jake moved in next door. With his easy smile, musical charm, and a past he's hesitant to share, Jake quickly becomes the one thing Sofia can't...
