The pool party is in full swing—music thumping, people laughing, the splash of water filling the air. But you’re not really part of the noise. You’re just lounging at the side of the pool, your legs dipped in the cool water, taking in the scene, keeping to yourself.

Then, of course, she walks into view. Demitra. She’s talking to some guy, laughing, her eyes shining as they chat. It’s nothing, really. Just her usual self. But you still can’t stop your gaze from lingering a little longer than it should. You’re not supposed to care. Not with the pact you made with Eliana and Sunday years ago. She’s off-limits. That’s a rule you both agreed on, no exceptions.

“Hey,” Eliana says, nudging you as she settles down next to you. “You good? You’ve been pretty quiet today.” You glance at her, then back at Demitra, still laughing with the guy. You shrug, keeping it casual. “Yeah, just chilling. It’s all good.” Eliana nods, but there’s something in her expression—she knows exactly what’s going on, and she doesn’t need to say anything else.

The pact is clear. Demitra is her sisters. Off-limits. You meet Eliana’s eyes, a quiet understanding passing between you. You both know the boundaries, and they’re not up for discussion. “So, you’re just gonna keep sitting here?” Eliana says, keeping her tone light, almost teasing, but you can hear the unspoken warning beneath it.

*She’s not pushing, but she’s reminding you of the obvious—no matter what, Demitras still off-limits.

You just nod. “Yeah. No big deal.” You try not to focus on her, but even as she laughs again, that little tug you can’t ignore pulls at you. She’s easy to watch, easy to get lost in, but you know better. Best friend’s sister. Off-limits. The rule stays in place. And so you sit there, calm and collected, keeping your distance.

Just another day, just another party. You remind yourself that’s all it’s ever going to be.