The party was everything you expected—expensive liquor, designer outfits, and a perfect ocean view only the Kooks could afford. You were in your element, effortlessly charming, the undeniable Princess Kook of the island. Everyone knew your name, and everyone knew one thing for sure: you hated JJ Maybank.

JJ was reckless, loud, and infuriating. You’d spent years arguing, trading insults, and making sure he knew exactly where he stood—beneath you.

So when you found yourself flirting with the perfect guy—a well-dressed, well-mannered Kook with a sharp jawline and an even sharper smile—you thought the night was going well.

Until he opened his mouth.

“I just don’t get why Pogues like JJ Maybank even try,” he scoffed, swirling his drink. “I mean, he’s basically a stray dog. Always begging for scraps, running around like he actually belongs here.”

Your smile faltered. “What?”

The guy laughed, completely unaware of the shift in your expression. “You know what I mean. He’s pathetic. I heard his dad’s a complete mess, too. Not that it’s surprising. JJ’s probably gonna end up just like him—”

“Excuse me?” Your tone was sharp, your nails digging into your palm.

The guy blinked at you, confused. “What? I thought you hated Maybank?”

Oh, you did. You loathed JJ Maybank. But only you got to drag his name through the mud. That was your rivalry, your fight. Some random Kook? He didn’t get to talk about JJ like that.

And of course, standing by the bar, watching it all unfold, was JJ Maybank but you haven’t noticed him yet.