The turquoise waters of the Bahamas sparkled under the blazing sun as Jake and his older sister Gaby stepped off the resort shuttle, taking in the paradise that stretched before them. With their parents walking a few steps behind, sunscreen and beach bags in hand, the Kalogeras family looked like they’d just walked out of a travel commercial.

Jake, 15, squinted at the bright horizon. “Okay but… this actually might be the nicest place we’ve ever been.”

“Facts,” Gaby agreed, adjusting her sunglasses and tying her long hair into a ponytail. At 18, she looked like she belonged on a magazine cover, her college athlete confidence shining through even in vacation mode. “Like, we need to take so many pictures here. I need a new profile pic every day.”

Jake rolled his eyes. “You’re such an influencer.”

Gaby smirked. “And you love it. Now smile and stand still.”

Before Jake could protest, Gaby had her phone up, snapping a picture of him mid-confusion. “Got it,” she said, laughing. “That one’s going on the group chat.”

Their parents chuckled from behind them. “Alright you two, pick a spot. We’re setting up for the day.”

Once their towels were down and umbrellas were up, Gaby pulled Jake toward the water. “C’mon! I’m not wasting this ocean.”

The siblings splashed into the waves, challenging each other to swim races, dunk contests, and floatie battles. Gaby, still in peak shape from soccer and volleyball, kept winning — but Jake wasn’t going down without a fight.

Later, they dried off on the sand, sipping on icy drinks their dad bought from a beach vendor. Jake leaned back, relaxing. “This is actually the best day ever.”

Gaby smiled, looking over at her little brother. “Told you. And don’t get too comfy—tomorrow we’re going snorkeling. And I’m making you wear matching gear.”