The Boy Next Door 🏡

Episode 6: Our First Date

Lily spent far too long choosing what to wear.

She finally settled on a simple blue dress and left her flat, only to find Ethan waiting outside.

He looked at her for a moment.

"You look beautiful."

Lily smiled shyly.

"Thank you. You look quite nice yourself."

"Quite nice?"

"Don't let it go to your head."

He laughed.

"Too late."

They drove to a small restaurant overlooking the Thames. It wasn't fancy, but the warm lights and quiet music made it feel perfect.

During dinner, Ethan kept making Lily laugh.

"So," he asked, "what's your idea of a perfect date?"

"Somewhere quiet. Good food. Good conversation."

He nodded.

"I think I can manage that."

"And yours?"

"Anywhere, as long as I'm with the right person."

Lily looked down at her plate, trying to hide her smile.

After dinner, they walked along the riverside.

The evening breeze was cool, so Ethan took off his jacket and placed it around her shoulders.

"You'll be cold," Lily protested.

"I'll survive."

She pulled the jacket closer.

"It smells like you."

Ethan smiled.

"Is that a complaint?"

"No."

They continued walking.

Eventually, Lily stopped beside the railing.

"Thank you for tonight."

Ethan stood beside her.

"I should be thanking you."

"For what?"

"For giving me a chance."

She looked at him.

"I didn't realise you were asking for one."

"I've been asking since the day you moved next door."

Lily smiled.

"I thought you were just annoying."

"I was."

She laughed.

Ethan turned towards her.

"Lily..."

His voice was softer now.

She looked up.

"What?"

He gently reached for her hand.

This time, neither of them hesitated.

Their fingers intertwined.

The city lights reflected across the river as they stood silently together.

Then Ethan leaned closer.

Lily's heart raced.

He stopped just before their lips touched.

"Is this alright?"

She nodded.

"Yes."

Their first kiss was soft and brief.

When they pulled apart, Lily smiled.

"That was worth waiting for."

Ethan laughed quietly.

"I agree."

As they walked home hand in hand, Lily realised something.

The boy next door wasn't just becoming her favourite neighbour.

He was becoming her favourite person.