At 52, I thought I’d seen it all—life has a way of teaching you patience, especially when it comes to unexpected guests in the neighborhood. But nothing prepared me for Amber. Recently divorced, full of energy, and dressed like every day was a night out, she moved in next door with confidence—and plenty of curiosity about my husband, Andy.
Her arrival made waves. Word quickly spread that she had once been married to a much older man and had come away with both a home and a reputation for being… ambitious. When I saw her out early one morning in workout gear that looked more like clubwear, I had a feeling she’d be a challenge.
Still, I believe in being neighborly. So the next day, I brought over a basket of muffins. Amber answered the door in a silk robe, smiling brightly. “How sweet!” she said. “Andy told me all about you!”
That got my attention.
Apparently, she had met him while he was watering our roses and she was collecting her mail. She complimented his kindness and let me know just how “lucky” I was. I assured her—with a smile—that I was well aware.
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