The Neighbor

Chapter 77

The next day dawns with a gentle glow, the sunlight streaming through the windows of your villa and dancing on the walls in golden hues. The ocean breeze drifts in through the open balcony doors, carrying with it the faint scent of salt and tropical flowers. The air is warm, but not stifling, kissed with a light humidity that makes everything feel lush and alive.

By late morning, you and Wanda are strolling through the vibrant streets of Bali, both dressed in light sundresses that sway with every step. Your dress is a soft cream color, the fabric flowing effortlessly as the gentle breeze catches it. Wanda's is a striking emerald green, hugging her figure in all the right places before flaring out just above her knees. Her auburn hair is loosely pinned up, a few strands escaping to frame her face, and her green eyes glimmer with joy every time she looks at you.

The streets are alive with color and activity. Stalls lined with intricate handmade jewelry, woven bags, and vibrant fabrics stretch out before you, their owners calling out warmly to passersby. The smell of freshly cooked satay mingles with the scent of frangipani flowers blooming nearby. Above, the sky is a bright, cloudless blue, and the sunlight filters through the leaves of towering palm trees.

Wanda's hand is a constant presence on you her fingers brushing your lower back, her hand sliding down to lace with yours, or her palm resting lightly on your hip as you pause to admire the items on display. She leans in often, her lips brushing your temple or your ear, murmuring playful comments that make you laugh.

As you stop at a stall selling delicate silver bracelets, she stands behind you, her hands gently resting on your shoulders. "This one would look stunning on you," she says, pointing to a bracelet etched with tiny floral designs. Her voice is soft, but there's a playful warmth to it that sends a shiver down your spine.

"You think so?" you ask, turning to look up at her. Her green eyes meet yours, and she nods, her lips curving into a small smile.

"Everything looks stunning on you," she replies, her voice dropping slightly as her gaze lingers on your face. The compliment, though simple, carries an intimacy that makes your cheeks flush.

You roll your eyes playfully, nudging her with your shoulder. "Flatterer."

"Always," she teases, leaning down to kiss the top of your head before reaching for the bracelet and holding it up to your wrist. "But I mean it."

The vendor grins, sensing Wanda's adoration, and quickly wraps the bracelet for you. As Wanda pays, she shoots you a wink, and you can't help but laugh, shaking your head at how effortlessly she always manages to charm everyone around her.

The two of you continue walking, the sound of your sandals clicking softly against the cobblestones mixing with the cheerful chatter of locals and tourists. Wanda's hand slides to the small of your back again, her thumb brushing in gentle circles as she guides you toward a small cafe shaded by lush greenery.

"Hungry?" she asks, her tone light as her hand moves to tuck a strand of hair behind your ear.

You nod, your stomach growling faintly as the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and tropical fruit wafts toward you. "Starving, actually."

"Perfect," she says, her eyes sparkling. "Let's sit for a bit."

The café is quaint, with wooden tables and chairs scattered beneath a canopy of vines. Birds chirp melodically in the background as you both settle into your seats, the soft rustle of leaves overhead adding to the ambiance. Wanda leans forward, resting her chin on her hand as she watches you scan the menu.

"What?" you ask, catching her gaze.

She shrugs, a playful smile tugging at her lips. "Just admiring the view."