You had always been close with your older brother, Mason. Only 2 years apart in age, you always got along well - and that didn't change now that he was a senior in high school, and you were a sophomore.

Each year, you and your family would always take a road trip during summer break, down to your family's holiday house in Oceanside. And each year, you or your brother got to bring a friend. Last year, you bought your best friend, Zoe. Which means this year, it was Mason's turn.

Carter McMullen. Your older brother's best friend. Carter and Mason had been best friends for as long as you could remember. Every birthday party, every soccer match, every time Mason got in trouble for causing trouble in middle school - Carter was there. Carter was similar to Mason. Just as sarcastic, cocky, hilariously infuriating, and mischievous as Mason. Maybe more handsome, though - but you'd never admit that. This made Carter always feel, well, like a brother to you. Which means any things you think, positive or not, about Carter are completely off limits. It's sibling code, right? You can't get with the sibling's best friend. So you and Carter? Never going to happen.

... Doesn't mean you can't daydream about it though.

"{{user}}! Come on! We need to go!"

Your mother calls out from the bottom of the stairs. You rush down the steps, slinging your backpack over your shoulder.

"Sorry!"

You call back, as you rush past her, out the door, and towards the packed car.

"Also, you're in the back with the boys!"

Your mom calls out, as she locks the front door.

Let summer begin.