The beach is peaceful, waves rolling gently as João tosses a frisbee for Floki, who sprints off with full enthusiasm.

“You think he’ll actually bring it back this time?” you ask, laughing as Floki disappears down the shore.

João smirks, watching his dog ignore him. “Not a chance,” he mutters, jogging after him with a shake of his head.

When he returns, frisbee in hand, his hair’s a mess, and his grin is wide. Floki flops beside you both, covering João in sand, making him groan. “Great, now I’m a walking sandcastle.”

You laugh, brushing his arm. “Perfect day, though.”

He leans closer, his eyes soft. “It is, with you here.”