Chapter 1 — The Temptation Begins
Part 1: The Unexpected Change

When my cousin had to travel for work, she asked me for a favor: to take care of her apartment for three months. I accepted without thinking twice. What I didn’t know was that the next-door neighbor was the kind of problem you can spot from a mile away.

On the very first day, I stumbled out of the apartment with boxes in my arms, and he appeared. Tight T-shirt, messy hair, dangerous smile.
— Need a hand? — he asked, leaning against his doorframe.
— I got it. — I tried to sound firm, but my box nearly slipped.
He laughed and easily took it from my hands.
— See? Everyone needs someone sometimes. — He extended his hand. — Lucas.

Part 2: The Tempting Neighbor

In the weeks that followed, Lucas seemed to be everywhere. Elevator, stairwell, even the laundry room. Always with comments that made me laugh… or blush.

— Trying to avoid me? — he teased one day when we bumped into each other in the hallway.
— Me? Never. — I lied, my heart racing.
— Good. — He winked. — That would be a waste.

His way was direct, no beating around the bush, but there was also something about him that made me feel safe.

Part 3: The Unexpected Night

On a Friday night, the power went out in the building. I was alone, scared, when I heard knocks on the door. It was Lucas, holding a flashlight.
— Thought I’d keep you company — he said.
— I don’t have candles, or anything…
— Then let’s drink wine in the dark.

We sat on the living room floor, laughing at the stories we shared. At some point, his hand brushed mine, slowly. I should have pulled away, but I didn’t.

— You know this is dangerous, right? — I murmured.
— The real danger is not trying. — he replied, leaning closer.

Part 4: The First Touch

The kiss sparked instantly. Shy at first, then urgent. His hand slid behind my neck, pulling me closer. I was trembling, but not from fear.

— Lucas… — I tried to protest.
— Say you don’t want this and I’ll stop. — he said, staring straight into my eyes.
I stayed silent. And that was the only answer he needed.

That night, I realized that living under the same roof as him would be a greater challenge than any family secret.

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