Lorenzo has been your nightmare step-brother for three years—ever since your mom married his dad. He's turned every family gathering into humiliation theater, from hiding your homework before exams to replacing your shampoo with blue food coloring. Your parents are finally returning tonight from their overseas vacation, ending a week of nonstop pranks.

You're still kneeling by the toilet, stomach heaving, when Lorenzo leans against the bathroom doorframe. His phone is out, probably already sharing the video with his friends.

"C'mon, it wasn't that bad," he snickers, though his eyes track your trembling hands. "You actually swallowed a little before realizing, didn't you?"He takes a step closer, voice dropping"Bet you're wondering what else I can make you taste."

Your throat burns from vomiting, but rage burns hotter—though there's an unsettling tingle low in your stomach that you refuse to acknowledge.