Page 10 of I'd Never Date my Brother's Best Friend

As much as I love morning runs, I had to stop them back in the city because the paparazzi and fans would follow me. Even when I run with my bodyguard, they still find a way to get to me, and it stinks. The lack of privacy is something I really hate about being a movie star.

Here in my town, it’s different. It’s like Willow Falls is locked away from the city and the fast pace of the people living there. No one cares who you are, nor do they have any wish to bother you. Many times I thought people were walking up to me to ask for pictures or autographs, but it was mostly for directions or some other mundane thing. It’s exhilarating and freeing, making me love my hometown even more. It’s been three days, and I’ve not regretted coming back for even a second.

I take the pods out of my ears as I near my rental and increase my pace, desperate for a cold shower and iced water. I don’t know for sure what I’ll do today, but before I finish my shower, I’m sure I’ll find something to fill my time. Jamie could also help.

Just before I turn onto the cemented path that leads to my door, the door of the house next to me flies open, and my neighbor walks out. Since moving in two days ago, I haven’t met my neighbor. I thought they were a hermit because the only activity I saw was the lights going on and off, but there wasn’t any other sign of life until today.

I continue walking up the path to my front door, but curiosity gets the better of me, and I turn again to look, confirming that my neighbor is indeed a young lady. My eyes travel up the expanse of smooth calves and long legs to the distressed cotton shorts she has on. On top, her shirt is a worn-out, tie dyed t-shirt with holes and frayed hems. Aside from the chaotic, randomly put together outfit, my neighbor’s hair is messy, like she had just woken up after a long night.

I’m about to turn away when I look at the face and freeze. I’d recognize that sullen expression anywhere. Suddenly, the random outfit and messy hair become the best thing I’ve ever seen on a woman ever. I stand, frozen on the spot, as Jessica marches down the driveway toward the mailbox. She looks annoyed, but come on, this is Jessica we’re talking about. When doesn't she have that expression on her face?

“Jess?” I call, excitement coursing through my veins when she whips her head in my direction. Our gazes lock, and somehow, her expression darkens further.

“Why are you—?” She asks, taking in my appearance. “You live there?” She points to my rented house.

Instead of answering, I skip over to her house, jumping over the fence between us easily. When I reach her side, Jessica’s expression is stormy enough to send the friendliest dog running. But even Jessica knows that if she ever had a match, it’s me. When she gets like this, I want to take out an imaginary stick and poke her until she bites.

“I like your outfit.” I smirk down at her. “It’s runway-worthy.”

A blush creeps up her cheek, and she scowls. “What are you doing here?” She slams the mailbox closed, but I don’t take my eyes off her.

“What does it look like?” I ask with sass, annoying her further.

She takes a deep breath and glares at me then glances back at my house.

“Yes,” I finally answer her question.

“How come?” Her tone is calm, and I acknowledge her control. I’m sure she wants to bite my head off. Literally. The thought almost makes me dissolve into laughter.

“Why are you smiling?” She asks. “How come we’re neighbors?”

“I didn’t even know you were my neighbor until today.”

“Liar liar pants on fire,” she accuses. “So you randomly rented a house and magically chose the one next to mine.” She touches a finger to her cheek. “Hmm. Try again. I don’t believe you.”

“You flatter yourself, Jess.” I reach out to straighten a strand of hair that’s poking out behind her ear. She glares and shakes off my hand. “So, you think if I’m going to choose a neighbor in the whole of Willow Falls, I’d pick your boring self?”

Her glare deepens, and this is the point where others back down, but I don’t. She knows I won’t.

“I’ve been here for two days, and this is my first time seeing you. What are you doing in there that keeps you from coming out to see the light of day?”

Her brows dip, and I think I see a flash of amusement in her eyes, but I can’t be sure. “Sorry I didn’t welcome you with a plate of cookies, Mr. Celebrity Actor.”

“It’s okay; I know you can’t bake,” I tell her. “If it makes you feel better, I’ll let you know that your dear brother recommended this apartment to me. So maybe blame him instead?”

“I’ll kill him.” She turns to march away, and I fall in step beside her.

“I’ve heard being an only child can be boring, but I’m sure you’re used to that lifestyle. Please kill him before next week because we only have one ticket to the upcoming school game, and it’s his.”

She stops suddenly and turns to me. “Why are you following me?”

I stop, really taking in her face. She’s beautiful, but she looks tired.

“Are you okay?” I ask. She opens her mouth, and I raise a finger to quell her.

“Stop it, Jessica,” I employ my serious tone, which I always use during meetings, especially with Franca. “You look tired. And why were you indoors all alone for two days? That’s not healthy.”

She blinks up at me for a moment, then sighs. “Not like I owe you any explanations,” she starts. “But I did it on purpose. I don’t usually stay locked in for that long, but I have a deadline looming for my new book.”

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