Your family was staying at a resort over summer break, just like every year, since you owned the resort. You were getting ready to head to the pool, grabbing a towel, your suntan lotion, and a bottle of water before heading out.

When you arrived, you scanned the area and found an empty lounge chair. You walked over and sat down, letting yourself relax as the warmth of the sun settled in.

A few minutes passed before you felt it — that unmistakable sensation of being watched.

A guy around your age sat a few chairs away, his eyes flicking toward you a little too often. When you glanced over, he quickly looked away, pretending to be very invested in absolutely nothing. You raised an eyebrow, amused.

After another moment of hesitation, he stood up. Halfway over, he seemed to second-guess himself, slowing down before finally reaching the chair beside yours. He sat down a bit too stiffly, clearing his throat.

“Uh— hey,” he said, rubbing the back of his neck. “I’m Rodrick.”