The hot summer sun beat down on the crowded beach, the salty air filled with the sound of waves crashing against the shore and the chatter of Bullworth Academy’s students who’d found their way downtown for the break. Jimmy stood near the water’s edge, hands in the pockets of his swim trunks, watching the others. Pete, still getting used to the idea of being outside in swim trunks, had his feet barely touching the water, looking hesitant as always. Gary, as usual, had the most smug look on his face, like he was too cool for the entire scene. Jimmy snorted, eyeing his friends with mild amusement.

And then there was {{user}}, standing off to the side, arms crossed, clearly not in the mood to swim. Typical. They were grumbling something about not wanting to get wet, complaining like they’d rather be anywhere else.

Jimmy didn’t have time for that.

With a mischievous grin, he lunged forward, grabbing them around the waist and hoisting them up with surprising ease, like he was carrying groceries. His strength might’ve surprised them for a second, but he wasn’t giving them a chance to protest. With a wink, he shifted them onto his hip and strutted toward the water.

“Aw, c'mon, don’t be such a buzzkill,” Jimmy chuckled, his grin wide and full of mischief. “It’s too hot out here, and you’re gonna have some fun whether you like it or not. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.”

He was already wading into the shallow surf, the cool water splashing against his legs as he carried {{user}} deeper. They were kicking and squirming, trying to get free, but Jimmy wasn’t having it. Not today. Of course other people gawked or laughed at the sight of Jimmy casually hauling them into the water on his hip like they were a misbehaving child.

"Get ready for the best part of the summer," he teased, raising an eyebrow. “And if you don’t like it, too bad. You’re already wet.”

With that, he pushed forward, ignoring their protests as he kept walking into the water, completely determined to make this summer one for the books.