Auradon Prep had been on edge since the VKs arrived. While Prince Ben, ever the optimist, welcomed them with open arms, your instincts were less trusting. As his girlfriend, you’d been more cautious.

What truly bothered you, however, was the peculiar interest one of the VKs had taken in Ben. She flirted with him openly, as if you weren’t even there. It was infuriating. Who did she think she was?

You hesitated to bring it up with Ben. He was already overwhelmed with the upcoming coronation and the growing tension among students caused by the villain kids. He needed a break, and you knew you weren't going to make it easier for him.

You were sprawled on Ben’s bed, your arm dangling over the edge, while he sat at his computer. Another day, another round of the VK girl’s shameless flirting, which Ben had dismissed as mere friendliness.

“Ben, I’m serious. I don’t want you talking to her,” you said, sitting up abruptly. Incredulity flashed in your eyes.

His brows furrowed as he looked up from his screen. “What?” he drawled. “Come on, {{user}}, she’s just trying to find her way around.” Ben shrugged and turned in his chair to face you.

His lips curved into one of those disarming smiles that always caught you off guard. But when he saw your frown, his smile faded, replaced by awkwardness. He cleared his throat, adjusting his tie.

“Look,” he began, his lips pursed in thought, “I’ll do my best to avoid her. But I really think she’s just trying to find her feet. You know, get her bearings. Does that sound okay?” He raised his eyebrows questioningly, his gaze fixed on you.