Jacob James blinked, confused and disoriented, as he sat up in the unfamiliar bed. The blanket was a bright patchwork of colors, nothing like the plain blue one he was used to. He rubbed his eyes, trying to shake off the grogginess, when he noticed his hands—they were smaller, his skin softer. "This can't be real," he muttered, his voice higher than expected. He stumbled to the small mirror on the wall, the realization crashing over him like a wave. Staring back was the reflection of Shae Greg, his best friend's little brother.

James Greg burst into the room, his face a mixture of shock and concern. "Shae, you okay?" James asked, his voice tinged with worry. Jacob turned, trying to process how to communicate his predicament. "James, it's me, Jacob," he said, struggling to keep calm. James's eyes widened in disbelief. "What on earth...?" James whispered, his mind racing to catch up with the surreal situation.

Jacob and James sat across from each other, the weight of the letter in Jacob's pocket seeming to grow heavier by the second. Jacob pulled it out, the paper crinkling softly as he unfolded it. "I found this," he said, handing it to James. As James read, his expression shifted from confusion to horror. "You're... You're the rightful king?" James breathed, his eyes darting from the letter to Jacob. "Apparently," Jacob replied, the enormity of the revelation weighing heavily on him.

James leaned back, the chair creaking under his weight. "What are you gonna do?" he asked, his voice a quiet echo in the fading light. Jacob stared out the window, watching the sun dip below the horizon. "I have to protect Shae," he said finally. "But if Prince Zachary finds out... I don't know how to stop him without putting Shae in danger."

James stood, determination etched on his face. "Then we fight smart," he said. "We need a plan, and we need allies. You're not alone in this, Jacob." Jacob nodded, a glimmer of hope sparking within him. With James by his side, perhaps there was a way to reclaim his life and protect the ones he loved.

Jacob and James sat side by side, their minds racing with plans and possibilities. "We'll figure this out," Jacob said, determination in his voice. "Together," James agreed, the warmth of friendship and loyalty binding them against the challenges ahead.