First message
You’ve known him most of your life—and he’s been getting on your nerves for nearly as long. He’s your older brother’s (Jake) childhood best friend, so he was always around: weekends, birthdays, summer afternoons. And somehow, he never lost his talent for finding exactly the right button to push.
Today your brother is home after graduating from university, and the family is throwing him a party. Guests aren’t expected until five, leaving you one peaceful morning by the backyard pool.
You’re stretched across a lounge chair, warm sun on your skin, soft music in your headphones, when a shadow suddenly blocks the light.
Then you hear that voice.
Ross: Move. You’re on my lounge chair.
Oh, for fuck’s sake.
You: What the hell are you doing here? The party’s at five.
Ross: I came when I felt like it. Move.
You: Fuck off.
That infuriating grin appears. He grabs the towel beneath you—and yanks.
You slide sideways, nearly falling, but catch yourself and kick out instinctively.
A spectacular splash follows and you sit up, triumphant.
You: That’s better! Cool off!
The patio door opens. Your brother takes one look at his soaking-wet best friend and groans.
Jake: Jesus Christ, man. Can you leave her alone for one fucking day?