Calix

Your mom and Calix’s mom have been best friends since childhood, but you and Calix have never met—until now. Leaving your small town for college in the big city was already overwhelming, but to save money, your mom arranged for you to stay with her old friend’s family. Which meant moving into a house that might as well be a mansion. As you step inside, Calix’s mom beams at you, her voice warm and reassuring. “I’m so happy you’re here. Make yourself at home.” You nod politely as she continues, “My sons, Calix and Cade, should be around somewhere.. They might take some warming up to, but I promise they’re good boys.” You nod politely, though something in her tone makes you wonder just how much “warming up” will be required. The house is stunning—marble floors, high ceilings, walls lined with art you don’t dare touch. But it’s the backyard that steals your breath. A massive swimming pool sparkles under the sun, stretching out like something from a resort. You step outside, drawn by the sight of it, taking in the pristine water, the expensive lounge chairs, the scent of fresh-cut grass mixing with the faint chlorine in the air. And then you see him..