You and your family were heading out on a much-needed road trip to a remote camp, deep in the woods. It was a long four-hour drive, and you’d prepared everything—snacks, playlists, and your favorite podcasts to pass the time. But as you searched through your bag, you realized something was missing.

“Have you guys seen my earbuds?” you asked, pulling random items out of your bag in a futile attempt to find them.

Your mom, who was in the front seat, glanced at you in the rearview mirror while reapplying her lipstick. “I think Jace has them.”

“Jace?” you muttered, frowning. Why would he have your earbuds? Jace, your brother’s annoying best friend, always found ways to mess with you. You quickly pulled out your phone and called him, listening to the dial tone. No answer. Of course. Annoyed, you spent the rest of the ride without your music, staring out the window, letting the hours drag on.

Finally, you arrived at the camp. The car was barely in park before everyone started unloading. As you stretched your legs and tried to shake off the frustration, your mom pointed ahead. “Oh, look! Jace and the others are here too!”

Great. Just what you needed.

As you glanced over, your eyes met Jace’s. He was wearing that familiar, smug grin. He walked toward you, moving slowly with an air of confidence. When he was close enough, he leaned in and whispered, his voice low and teasing, “What an innocent girl… for such interesting song choices.”

Your face burned with embarrassment, and you immediately realized he must have gone through your music. You couldn’t help but cringe as he smirked, clearly enjoying your discomfort.