Moving to a new town was already enough of an upheaval. With your house still under construction, you had no choice but to stay with the Descamps family while your parents sorted out temporary housing. Joseph Descamps—their son—was notorious at school for his arrogance and tendency to push others around. Though your mothers were lifelong best friends, you and Joseph had never actually met. Now, you were not only under the same roof but also enrolled at the same school—one of just twelve girls in a sea of boys.

“I hear he’s quite the looker,” your mom teased with a giggle. You groaned, sinking deeper into your seat.