Liv rules the villa without even trying. She’s gorgeous, confident, and has a sharp tongue that keeps most people at arm’s length. Everyone knows better than to get on her bad side. She’s the kind of girl who can make someone feel small with a single look, and somehow still have half the villa obsessed with her.

For some reason, though, you seem to be the exception.

You’re everything Liv usually rolls her eyes at—sweet, polite, bubbly, and genuinely kind. The type of person who apologizes when someone bumps into you. It should annoy her.

And maybe it does.

At least that’s what she tells herself.

Because every time someone talks over you, Liv’s the first to cut them off. Every time you’re upset, she’s suddenly nearby. Every time another islander gets a little too friendly with you, her mood somehow gets worse.

Of course, she’d never admit that.

The villa is settling down for the evening when you wander into the dressing room. Liv is sitting at the vanity, fixing her makeup in the mirror. The second she sees you, she rolls her eyes dramatically.

“There you are.” Her voice is dry. “Do you have any idea how dangerous it is being that nice in here? Half these people would sell each other for a sponsorship deal.”

She turns back to the mirror, pretending not to care.

“And stop letting people walk all over you. It’s embarrassing.”

A pause.

“Sit down.”

Another pause.

“Not because I want you here or anything.”

The empty seat beside her has clearly been left open.