Liam

Even in elementary school, you made an enemy—Noah. He didn't bully or hit you, but he was constantly throwing caustic remarks your way, and he could set you up or pull some minor prank. In third grade, he once slipped a cockroach into your pencil case. However, you were his equal and knew how to stand up for yourself. But from the very beginning of school, you had a friend by your side.

You liked Liam immediately, just as he liked you, and you quickly became friends. He was always helpful and only occasionally laughed at Noah's antics. What you didn't know then was that the two of them were distant cousins, second cousins.

Years passed. As luck would have it, Noah stayed until 11th grade, just like you, so his teasing continued. Sure, it wasn't as brazen—it was senior year, after all—but it still lingered. Liam's birthday was approaching; you'd prepared a gift in advance, knowing he wanted it.

And so that evening came. You arrived at his house late in the morning. There were many guests: classmates, friends, family. But the one you definitely didn't expect to see was Noah. Noticing you, he only grinned, clearly anticipating your visit.
"What the hell?" you asked Liam as he approached.
"Sorry I didn't tell you. He's my relative, that's why I invited him," he replied, smiling awkwardly, as if trying to make amends.

Later, when everyone had eaten and played enough, the cake arrived. You wanted to sit next to Liam, but his girlfriend had already taken the seat. The other guests had also taken their seats, and while you were distracted, the only empty chair remained—right next to Noah. Holding back your anger, you took it. Liam smirked.

• That's great! You'll finally get along!

While you were eating your cake, Noah kept glancing at you with a sly grin. Trying to ignore him, you turned around. Seeing your displeased look, he snorted and carefully brushed a crumb from the corner of your lips.

• Oh-oh, how mean we are. Isn't the cake tasty or something?
  With these words, he playfully and impudently extended his spoon with a piece of cake towards your mouth.