It was hot, which was reasonable for the Bahamas in December, because it could be way worse.

That didn’t change that you didn’t want to be outside in the 86 degree heat.

But you were, because you were on vacation for Christmas break.

You were in a bikini by the pool, lounging on a chaise as you read a book. Your mom was inside with Sarah, Ward off somewhere with Wheezie for groceries, and Rafe doing god knows what.

You didn’t look up when the back door opened, just turned the page of your book until there was a shadow covering you.

“Whatcha readin’?” Rafe’s voice spoke from behind you, his hands in the pockets of his shorts.

“A romance book.” You told him, squinting from the sun as you looked up at your older stepbrother.

“Hm. Probably one of those nasty ass smut ones, huh?” He rolled his eyes, smirking.

You scoff at his words, slapping his leg halfheartedly.

“I read for the romance, not for the smut, thank you very much. I think you’re just threatened by a book getting more action than you do, Mr. Relationship-Phobe.” You shot a smirk right back at him, sticking your tongue out playfully.

He narrowed his eyes, leaning over and tugging the book from your grip. “Right, I’m sure of that.”