The Forgotten Neighbor

At seventeen, Beatrixa Watson and her neighbor Maverick Fuller tasted forbidden fruit, hiding their romance from everyone.

That day, she nervously held her homework, seeking his help.

Her budding affection burned too brightly. He noticed her feelings and gently coaxed her to lift her skirt.

"Don't be afraid. It won't hurt," he said.

Her unease and resistance melted under his charming, tender smile.

After that day, whenever Beatrixa visited him next door, his voice carried a teasing warmth. "I worked so hard helping you with your problems, Bae. How about a little reward for me?"

Her cheeks flushed as she agreed. When passion took over, he always kissed her forehead. "Bae, you're so good. I really like you."

He promised to go public with their relationship once she got into his university.

But when she arrived at his house, clutching her acceptance letter with excitement, his careless, mocking voice stopped her cold. "The only one I care about is Bailee. Beatrixa's just the neighbor girl. If Bailee hadn't been abroad as an exchange student this past year, and if Beatrixa didn't look a bit like her, I'd never have been with someone as overweight as her. Now that Bailee's back, it's time to ditch this problem."