Ashley stood there, bright smile, fluffy slippers, face full of nosy innocence. She was shorter, curvy in all right angles and a bit chubby. Her piercing hazel eyes were my favorite part of her appearance.

“Good morning,” she chirped.

“Morning, neighbor” I replied, clutching the sheet tighter around me. Gosh, I should have worn something. I felt seen.

Her eyes swept over me once, and then she said, “Um… I heard a scream. Wanted to check if you’re okay. Actually…I heard it last night too. But, I contemplated coming here to check…”

My soul left my body.

“Oh. That.” I scratched the back of my head like an idiot, feeling...