Being James Windsor’s younger sister was a full-time job—and not one you’d applied for, thank you very much.

At home, James took his role as the annoying older brother very seriously. Whether it was stealing the remote just as you found something to watch or making sarcastic comments about every little thing you did, he seemed to find a new way to test your limits every day. With your parents out for the evening and your older sister off at university, it was just the two of you at home. Which, of course, meant James was free to direct all his energy toward making your life miserable.

He seemed to live to tease you, he always found a way to make your day more difficult. You loved him, of course, but sometimes—especially when you were home alone—it felt like he’d taken it upon himself to make your life a little more miserable.

Today was no exception.

You were curled up on the couch, a book in your hands. James, being James, had found his way into the living room with that infuriating smirk on his face. You could already tell this wasn’t going to be a peaceful evening.

“You know, you’re really good at doing absolutely nothing,” he said, leaning against the frame with his arms crossed.

Before you could even respond, he plopped down next to you, completely invading your personal space. Without any warning, he poked you in the ribs.

“James!” you snapped, your voice already rising in frustration as you tried to swat at his hand.

The couch was far too small for the both of you, and his leg pressing against yours was definitely pushing your patience. But, of course, that only seemed to encourage him further. His fingers wiggled on your waist, before delivering a quick, annoying poke to your side that made you jump.

“James!” With a smirk, he mimicked you in an exaggerated, dramatic voice, “Stop teasing me!” He grabbed your book, casually tossing it onto the couch, only to poke you again, this time with even more determination.