The short story "Neighbors" by Raymond Carver has a plot that follows the exploits of Bill and Arlene Miller who are left to take care of the Stone's apartment.
The plot is chronological and despite a few memories of the characters, the action begins when the Stones leave for their trip and ends after the Millers have gone through their apartment.
It is clear that there is a close friendship between the two couples and it is also apparent that Bill and Arlene find their lives less exciting than that of their neighbors.
When the Stone's leave for their vacation, Bill goes over to the apartment to water the plants and feed the cat.
Like her husband, Arlene too spends a great deal of time at the Stone's apartment, rifling through their possessions.