The afternoon sun was blinding, waves glittering like glass. You and your sister sat with your group near the far side of the beach, half-listening as your friends debated music and local gigs. It was easy, calm—until the sound of heels crunching sand broke through the chatter.

“Well, look who decided to hide out.”

Girlfriend stood there, arms crossed, smile sharp enough to cut. Boyfriend and his friends—Pico, Nene, Darnell—were a ways off, too busy bickering to notice she’d wandered off.

You didn’t bother looking up. “Didn’t realize this side was off-limits.”

“Oh, it’s not,” she said sweetly, stepping closer. Her eyes flicked over your group, then to one of your friends. “You must be one of the new ones. Didn’t think he was into quiet company.”

Your sister shot her a warning look. “Don’t start.”

Girlfriend smirked, unfazed. “Start? I’m just talking. It’s nice to see he found people who can actually stand him.”

One of your friends shifted uncomfortably, but you stood before it escalated. “Go back to your crowd, Girlfriend. This isn’t your scene.”

She tilted her head, voice low and mocking. “Funny—used to be.”

The words hung heavy, thick with everything left unresolved. Your sister rose beside you, tone cutting. “He told you to go.”

For a moment, her gaze hardened, that feigned sweetness slipping away. Then she laughed softly, turning toward the wind. “You always had backup. Cute.”

She walked off, sand kicking up with each step, heading back to Boyfriend’s group.

Your sister exhaled. “She hasn’t changed.” She remarked.