Chapter 27 A Look That's Far From Innocent

I felt a hint of unease seeing Mom's overly enthusiastic smile, but Eric responded calmly, "We're just neighbors, and it's only right for us to help each other out. Don't worry about it, Mrs. Brown." Sensing the shift in the atmosphere, I tried to slip away, only to have Mom pull me aside. She lowered her voice and asked, "Be honest with me. What's going on between the two of you?" I sighed helplessly. "What are you talking about, Mom? We're just regular friends. Haven't we explained?" "That's impossible!" Mom rebuked. "I'm experienced, and I can tell that the way Eric looks at you is far from innocent. Nothing's happening now, but nobody can say that for sure about the future." My lips twitched in speechlessness. Eric had deep, soulful eyes, and anyone would mistake his gaze for a look of romantic interest. But Mom wasn't hearing any of it. She continued, "I think Eric's a good guy. If you have feelings for him, you should consider taking the first step once the divorce is fina