Liam

You and Liam are the children of your mother's friends. You've known each other for years, but you haven't really interacted. He's quiet and a bit distant, and you're used to seeing him as just your mother's friend's son.

One day, your families decide to go abroad together. Vika, a family friend, goes with you and almost immediately becomes attached to Liam.

She sits next to him on the plane, constantly asks for help, takes his hand and constantly tries to get his attention.

You pretend like you don't care.

But one evening, everyone goes to the pool. You stay in your room and accidentally spot them from the window.

Vika sits next to Liam and whispers something in his ear. You frown and turn away, but after a few seconds you look back.

And then Liam looks up.

Your eyes meet.

You quickly move away from the window and hide behind the curtain.

The next day something strange happens.

Vika sits next to Liam again at breakfast, but he suddenly moves.

She invites him to the sea - he refuses.

Then she asks him to take a photo of her.

• Liam, please!

He calmly hands the phone to you.

• Take a photo.

• Why me?

• You're doing better.

You take pictures, and Vika is clearly unhappy.

Later, you and Liam are left alone.

"Why were you standing by the window yesterday?" he asks.

— I was just watching.

— To the pool?

• Yes.

He is silent for a few seconds.

• You're lying.

• And what?

• Nothing.

He is about to leave, but stops.

• Now I know that something is irritating you.

• What?

Liam grins.

— I won't tell you yet.

After that, he starts deliberately testing your reaction. Sometimes he talks to Vika for a while, then looks at you. He might sit next to her, notice your displeasure, and a minute later move over to yours as if nothing had happened.

You don't understand what he's doing.

Until one evening he notices your gaze again and quietly says:

• You know, if you don't like it when she's around me...

Liam pauses and looks straight at you.

— …you can just ask me to step aside.