Next-Door Neighbors Part Two

Carmen smiles. “We also have a four-year-old, Jose. He was in a cranky mood, so he’s in his bath right now. But I’m sure you’ll meet him and his father soon.”

“I look forward to it.” I suddenly remember my manners. “Would you like to come in?”

“Thank you, but…” She nods at the twins. “Their baths are next. School tomorrow.” She pulls her phone from her pocket and hands it to me. “If you give me your contact info, I’ll text you mine. Please let me know if you need anything.”

Contacts…. Amy… “Done. And please feel free to do the same.”

Quick glance and a smile. “Perfect. It’s nice to meet you, Amy.”

“Thank you, Carmen. It’s nice to meet you, too. And thank you for the banana bread.”

“Mexican, Dulce de Leche banana bread.” She winks. “The best!”

“No doubt! I might have it for dinner!”

She straightens. “Dinner? You’re not cooking yet, are you? What a bad neighbor I am! I’ll take the kids home and be right back.”

My big mouth!

“No! I was just teasing.” Well, not really, but… “It just sounds amazing.”

“I’m bringing you a bowl of pozole and that’s that. It’s a little spicy. Is that okay?”

“Sure, but…”

“I’ll be back.”

The kids wave as they head back across the lawn. I know I have a mile-wide smile as I wave back. We might’ve just met, but I love my next-door neighbors already.