The sun was blazing overhead, turning the backyard into the perfect summer paradise. The pool sparkled under the light, and you and Lauren had decided there was no better way to spend the afternoon than jumping right in.

Lauren was already in the water, hair slicked back, leaning on the edge with a mischievous grin. “Took you long enough,” she teased as you set your phone down on the lounge chair.

“You know I had to get the playlist ready,” you said, sliding into the water. The coolness hit instantly, refreshing against the heat.

Lauren splashed you as soon as you were waist-deep. “No excuses!” she laughed.

“Oh, that’s how it’s gonna be?” you smirked, diving toward her. She squealed, trying to swim away, but you caught her and pulled her close, both of you laughing like kids as the water rippled around you.

After the splashing war, you both floated on your backs, staring up at the perfect blue sky. “This,” Lauren said softly, “is the life.”

“Yeah,” you agreed, turning your head toward her. “No gym, no train drama, no weird breakdancing dudes—just us.”

She chuckled, drifting closer until your shoulders touched. “I could stay out here all day.”

“Same,” you said, but then grinned. “Except… I’m kinda hungry.”

Lauren rolled her eyes. “You’re always hungry.”

“Pool day burns calories!” you defended.

She laughed, splashing you again before swimming toward the shallow end. “Fine, but first… race you to the other side!”