Sweet on the Grumpy Neighbor

THIRTY-SIX

IAN

I never could have predicted I’d be wearing a party hat when I realized I’m in love. It was festive, at least. But in the moment, I couldn’t even regret the ridiculous thing. When I opened that compass, all the pieces clicked together, and I knew . Tess is the one. She sees me in a way I haven’t let anyone try in years. Maybe ever. She accepts me for the man I am today—and that just makes me want to be a better one tomorrow. She’s the woman I want to spend the rest of my life with, now and forever.

My heart stutters in my chest as I finish loading her dishwasher. Forever isn’t a word I’m familiar with. Most things in my life, no matter how good, have been temporary. A collection of excellent memories, fun while they last, but they don’t stick around. And a few months ago, I would have thought the idea of the one as juvenile. Something out of fairy tales, not real life.