It all started years ago, back when your parents first became friends with Simon’s family. Both wealthy, both powerful in their respective industries, the two families became practically inseparable, bonding over business ventures, lavish dinners, and vacations to exotic places. And so it seemed natural that their children — you and Simon — would be expected to follow the same path of camaraderie.

Except that never happened.

Instead, every encounter between you and Simon turned into a competition. From the moment you could speak, it was a constant contest of who could do better, be better. He was always one step ahead — slightly taller, slightly smarter, slightly faster. And it only got worse when you both ended up at the same elite boarding school. Each test score became a battleground. Each teacher’s praise felt like a personal affront when directed at him instead of you.

Now, it’s summer vacation. The one time of the year when you’re supposed to get away from all the tension, all the constant comparison. But not this year. No, this year your parents thought it would be “fun” to invite Simon and his family on your yacht. A little “bonding time,” they said.

Fun.

You glance over at him, feeling the familiar knot of irritation coil in your stomach. Of course, he’s wearing the kind of designer clothes that make it look like he just stepped off the cover of some preppy old money fashion magazine. You, on the other hand, are in a plain t-shirt and shorts, your idea of vacation wear being more about comfort than appearances. But then, that’s just Simon, isn’t it? Always perfect, always polished.

“So,” he says, breaking the silence, not even looking up from his magazine. “Excited for senior year? Or just looking forward to more second-place finishes?”