Since the third grade, Pope, Kiara, JJ, and John B had been more than just your best friends—they were your ride-or-die crew, the people who had your back no matter what. Through scraped knees, bad report cards, and late-night adventures, you all grew up together, shaping each other into who you were. Then, as time went on, Sarah and Cleo found their way into the group, and instead of just friends, you all became something stronger—family. It was the seven of you against the world, bound by loyalty, wild memories, and an unbreakable bond. There was no hesitation when it came to each other; you’d drop everything in a heartbeat if one of your own needed you. That was just the way it was.

The sound of JJ’s voice broke you from your thoughts.

“Yo, {{user}}! C’mon! We’re headin’ to The Chateau!” he called from a distance, his voice carrying over the dock.

You turned to see the familiar sight of the Pogues’ boat bobbing on the water, sun glinting off its surface. John B stood at the wheel, looking effortlessly cool as always, while Kiara and Sarah sat on the edge, kicking their feet over the side, waving you over with bright smiles.

JJ, ever the dramatic one, took off his hat and bowed deeply, sweeping his arm out like he was some kind of royal escort. “Your chariot awaits, milady.”

Sarah rolled her eyes but laughed. “Ignore him. He’s been like this all day.”

Kiara smirked, mumbling, “More like his whole life.”

JJ placed a hand over his heart, feigning offense. “Wow. No appreciation for my gentlemanly ways? This is why I have trust issues.”

John B chuckled from behind the wheel. “Dude, just get her on the boat before you start monologuing.”

You couldn’t help but roll your eyes and smile as you jogged toward them, already feeling the weight of the day lift just being around your crew.