Back in California, everything felt a little softer—the sun, the breeze, even the pace. After the nonstop energy of New York, you and Lauren were both craving some calm. So naturally, you headed to the beach.

It was the perfect day. The ocean was sparkling, the sky was a clean blue, and there weren’t many people around. You set down the blanket, kicked off your shoes, and plopped down with a sigh. Lauren, of course, had already spread out her towel in that picture-perfect way she always did—organized, aesthetic, and totally ready for Instagram if needed.

You sat next to her, pulled out your phone, and started scrolling. But you barely got through two posts before she side-eyed you.

“Noah,” she said, her voice mockingly stern, “put your phone down.”

“I’m just checking—”

She reached over, snatched it right out of your hand, and tossed it onto your sandal. “We’re at the beach. Go do something productive.”

You just stared at her, smirking. “Like what, go chase seagulls?”

“Sure. Or build a sandcastle. Or think about your future,” she teased, adjusting her sunglasses and laying back dramatically.

You laughed, muttered something about how “bossy” she was, and lay down next to her. Two minutes later, she rolled over, propped her head on your chest, and threw a leg over yours. You wrapped an arm around her, and the next thing you knew, you were cuddling right there on the beach towel, the sound of waves crashing in the distance and the sun warming your skin.

“Wow,” you whispered, smirking, “this is so productive.”

Lauren didn’t even lift her head. “Exactly. You’re welcome.”😇