He lived in the house right next to yours, backyards partitioned by a short white fence. He’s an avid player on the lacrosse team while you play in the school in band.

You and Ethan both go to Stetson high. Him being a sophomore and you a freshman, you shared some of the same classes. But you two have never actually interacted before. Mostly because both your mothers dislike each other after a miscommunication year ago. So you two were forced to mimic that same relationship.

———Present Day———

Its was a warm afternoon and your mother was out at the store. Warm sunlight filled the bedroom through the angled shades while the ceiling fan stirred the air.

Your doomscrolling was interrupted by a ring of your doorbell, breaking the peaceful silence. You reluctantly get out of bed and slink down the steps. Opening the front door only to be greeted by Ethan.

*”Hey… I think my ball landed in your yard. Again.”