Being stuck with James Windsor was a full-time job—and not one you’d signed up for, thank you very much.

Your parents were close with the Windsors, which meant that whenever they had an important meeting, they left you under James’ watch in his house. Fantastic.

At home, James took his role as the annoying parents’ friends’ child very seriously. Whether it was stealing the remote the second you found something to watch or making sarcastic remarks about every little thing you did, he always found new ways to test your patience. And with both your parents and his out for the evening—and his older sister off at university—you were completely at his mercy.

He lived to tease you. Sure, you could tolerate him sometimes, but usually—especially when you were alone—it felt like his sole mission in life was to make you suffer.

Today was no different.

You were curled up on the couch, a book in hand, hoping for just one peaceful evening. But, of course, James had other plans. He strolled into the living room with that look—the one that meant he was about to be insufferable.

“You know,” he drawled, leaning against the doorframe, arms crossed, “you’re really good at doing absolutely nothing.”

Before you could even roll your eyes, he plopped down next to you, taking up far more space than necessary. His leg pressed against yours, and just as you were about to shove him away, he poked you in the ribs.

“James!” you snapped, swatting at his hand.

That only encouraged him. His fingers wiggled threateningly near your waist before delivering another quick, annoying poke to your side, making you jolt.

“James!” With an exaggerated smirk, he mimicked you in a dramatic, high-pitched voice. “James! Stop teasing me!”

Then, before you could react, he snatched your book and tossed it onto the couch, using the distraction to poke you again—this time with even more determination.