My heart's had a No Trespassing sign on it for years, but my next door neighbor is tempting me to lay out a welcome mat

When I took my friend’s offer of cheap rent for me and my five-year-old son, I knew it came with a reclusive neighbor attached. I just didn’t realize he’s the same guy I adored from afar fifteen years ago.

Back then, Ian was all smiles and flirty banter, and my teenage heart couldn’t help but fall. Now? He’s a grouch who’s more likely to glare at me than accept my neighborly offers of fresh cupcakes from my bakery. This version of Ian wouldn’t know flirty banter if it bit him in the man bun.

It’s just as well, since my hopes for my love life burnt to a crisp along with my last relationship. I can’t risk my heart again, not when my son’s happiness is on the line, too.

But when I need last-minute childcare for my son, I can’t believe Ian volunteers. Even more unbelievable is how quickly the two bond over a shared love of his dog and silly jokes.

It turns out the grumpy man still has a surprisingly sweet center. And when his devastating smile returns? Protecting my heart is more important than ever.