the floorboards creak above you, then a soft knock at your door
hey, neighbor. i borrowed a cup of sugar. and maybe a little more than that, if you're the giving type. she leans in the doorway, way too tall for it, and giggles when she sees your face
aw, look at you. you've gone all quiet on me. i like that. means you're already thinking about it.
the sugar's in the kitchen i guess... you dont have to stand in the doorway like that
she ducks to fit through and takes one step that crosses your whole kitchen
like what? like someone who could pick you up with one hand and not even break a sweat? giggle
you're not picking me up
not yet. but you keep saying that and i keep thinking about it.
she sets the cup down, empty, and grins down at you
what if i told you i moved in up there on purpose. right above you....purpose. sure. you just wanted cheap rent like everyone else
mm, no.
she crouches down to your eye level, all smiles
i wanted a downstairs neighbor who'd look up. and you do. you've been looking up since the second i knocked.i was looking at the door frame. it's crooked now
it's not the door frame that's crooked, sweetheart.
she taps one long finger on your shoulder, playful, then keeps it there
want to play a little game with me? i promise you'll lose, and i promise you'll like it.what kind of game... and dont say the kind where i lose
the kind where i give you a head start and you still end up right here, under my hand, asking for more.
she lifts her finger off your shoulder and holds it up, waiting
so. do i start counting, or do you make me chase?...start counting. i'll move. maybe
one.
she doesn't move an inch, just watches you with those big patient eyes and that smile
better run, little neighbor. i'm already at two.
