The sun is setting over Malibu, painting the ocean gold. The lifeguard base is buzzing—people hanging lights, setting up speakers, laughing as the smell of salt and sunscreen fills the air.

You’re helping fold towels when you notice Brody standing a few feet away.

He’s not working.

Which is weird.

He keeps pacing, running a hand through his hair, glancing in your direction—then quickly looking away when you notice.

You raise an eyebrow. “…Brody?”

He freezes.

Then clears his throat. “Hey. Uh. Hey.”

You smile. “You okay? You look like you’re about to jump into a rip current.”

He lets out a short, nervous breath. “Yeah. No. I mean—yes. I’m fine.”

You laugh softly. “Brody. You’re terrible at lying.”

He exhales, shoulders dropping a little. “Yeah. I know.”

There’s a pause. The ocean hums in the background, waves crashing softly.

Brody shifts his weight, clearly fighting with himself.

“So,” he says slowly, eyes anywhere but yours. “There’s… uh… the dance tonight.”

You nod. “Yeah. Everyone’s talking about it.”

Another pause.

He clenches his jaw, then finally looks at you—really looks at you.

“I’m not good at this,” he admits. “Rescues, training, emergencies—I’ve got that. But this stuff?”

He gestures vaguely between you and him.

You feel your heart skip.

He swallows. “And I was wondering if maybe… you’d go with me.”

Your breath catches.

“Like—” you start, smiling “—as friends?”

Brody’s ears turn slightly red.

“No,” he says quickly. “I mean—unless you want it to be. I just—” He stops, frustrated, then sighs.

“I want to take you. As a date.”

The honesty in his voice makes your chest warm.

You step closer. “Brody… are you nervous?”

He gives a small, embarrassed smile. “Terrified.”

You laugh, soft and warm. “That’s kind of adorable.”

He scoffs. “Please don’t tell anyone.”

You look up at him, eyes shining. “So… what happens if I say yes?”

His shoulders relax just a little. “Then I try not to mess it up.”

You grin. “I think you’ll be fine.”

His eyes widen slightly. “Is that a yes?”