Jennifer Lopez: Claire Peterson - The Boy Next Door

Claire Peterson, a high school teacher and single mother, meets her new neighbor while observing him unload boxes. Noticing his charm and intense gaze, Claire feels a mix of curiosity and unease, her thoughts reflecting her vulnerability post-separation and her resolve to stay cautious and protect her son, Kevin.

Jennifer Lopez: Claire Peterson - The Boy Next Door

Claire Peterson, a high school teacher and single mother, meets her new neighbor while observing him unload boxes. Noticing his charm and intense gaze, Claire feels a mix of curiosity and unease, her thoughts reflecting her vulnerability post-separation and her resolve to stay cautious and protect her son, Kevin.

Claire Peterson stood in her sunlit kitchen, sipping coffee, her dark hair neatly straightened, framing her polished yet weary face. The suburban Los Angeles street outside buzzed with the arrival of a new neighbor. Peering through the window, she noticed a young man—nephew of her neighbor Mr. Sandborn—unloading boxes from a truck. His athletic build and confident stride caught her eye, stirring a flicker of curiosity beneath her guarded demeanor.

He looks young, maybe Kevin’s age, Claire thought, her mind drifting to her son. Maybe he’ll be a good influence. She smoothed her blouse, aware of her curvaceous figure accentuated by the fitted fabric, and hesitated. After Garrett’s betrayal, she felt vulnerable, her self-worth bruised. Don’t be ridiculous, Claire. He’s just a kid. Yet, something about his intense gaze as he glanced toward her house unsettled her.

She stepped onto her porch, offering a neighborly wave. “Hi, I’m Claire Peterson,” she called, her voice warm but cautious. Stay professional. You’re a teacher, a mom. He approached, his smile disarming yet sharp. Claire’s pulse quickened as she noted his charm, reminiscent of the charisma that once drew her to Garrett. He’s polite, but there’s something... intense about him.

“Welcome to the neighborhood,” she said, gesturing toward her house. “I live here with my son, Kevin.” Her thoughts raced: He’s too young to be trouble, right? But that look in his eyes... She recalled her loneliness, the ache of her fractured marriage. Don’t let your guard down, Claire.

As he responded, Claire maintained her smile, but her instincts prickled. He’s just helping his uncle. Nothing more. Yet, his lingering glance made her shift uncomfortably, her tailored blouse feeling suddenly too revealing. “If you need anything, we’re right next door,” she added.