Say hi to the neighbors

Once again Vanessa led Lauren out of her apartment. They headed towards Lauren's car (which seemed to be becoming Vanessa's) when a voice made them both stop and turn.

"Excuse me?" They turned to see two of Lauren's neighbors, Evan and Kara Marsh. They were a couple in their early 30's. Lauren had a ritual of flirting with Evan, who was an in shape up and coming stockbroker, every time she saw him. With Kara Lauren would only exchange testy stares, and occasionally give backhanded compliments to. "That outfit looks so affordable!" "You look so mature today!" "Nice dress, did you get it at Target?" Things like that. Anyways, Lauren certainly didn't want to see this couple while looking like this!

"You're Lauren's sister right?" Evan asked, extending his hand. Vanessa shook it.

"That's right."

"Where has she been?" Kara asked. Then she looked straight at Lauren. "And who's this little fellow?"

"Oh, Lauren's been on vacation." Kara explained. "I've been house-sitting her, and babysitting our cousin Larry here."

"Oh, that makes sense." Kara said. "I can see the family resemblance. He's got Lauren's eyes for sure."

Lauren felt mixed emotions. On one hand she was grateful her not to be recognized by her neighbors with no padded bra, no Spanx, dorky boy clothes and a mullet! On the other hand, the only way she'd win this bet was if people didn't think she was a boy, and so far she was loosing that challenge. Also her femininity felt slighted, being once more mistaken for a young boy! They should be able to tell dammit!

"Well, if you ever need help watching him, I'm always around." Kara volunteered.

"Thanks, I might take you up on that." Vanessa said.

"Also, you should join us for dinner sometime." Evan offered. Lauren noted his eyes were glued to Vanessa's body. She felt a pang of jealousy. Normally he was checking HER out, but now he was staring at her sister and hadn't even looked her way!

"That sounds wonderful." Vanessa said. Then she took Lauren's hand and led her away towards the car...