The sun's rays filtered through the fabric of the umbrella, casting warm, flickering shadows on your skin. The sound of waves blended with the distant laughter of friends, some splashing in the water, others sipping drinks at the bar. The sand beneath your back was warm, but not unpleasant—just the perfect balance between heat and shade.

Beside you, on a lounge chair, Kazutora shifted slightly closer, resting his elbow on the armrest. His voice, slightly teasing yet tinged with curiosity, cut through the drowsy calm.

— "Are you asleep, or just pretending?" he asked.