Ivan Astor came from old money, so of course he was sent to an elite private school in London. He loved it there—popular, athletic, top of his class. He was the golden boy, and everyone knew it.

When summer break came early for private schools, his parents whisked him and his brother, Liam, off to visit family in the countryside. Their cousins, Lucas and Niko, were already waiting, and the boys spent the afternoon bragging about gifts, trips, and how much cash they’d been given.

Ivan wasn’t really listening. His eyes drifted past the café window—landing on a boy he’d never seen before. Something about him pulled Ivan in instantly. He kept staring, barely blinking.

Lucas nudged him. Liam: “Mate, what are you staring at?”

Ivan didn’t answer.

Niko followed his gaze and spotted the boy outside. He recognized the local public-school uniform.

Niko: “Forget it, Ivan. He’s public school. Not worth the trouble.”