Sun–baked waves gently lapped at your skin, perturbed by the obnoxious playing of wet bodies nearby. Had it not been for the heavy, calloused palm that lay flat on your forehead, your vision would have been an uncomfortable blur of vibrant, twisting hues and sweaty skin. Your diminutive size made it easy for your father to settle you on his hip and wade through the shallow end of the packed swimming pool, his free hand occasionally rising to splash water at your face.

“See? I told you it wouldn’t be so bad.”

Your eyes timidly flitted to the still current, studying the reflection of your face, pouty with nervousness and bittersweet curiosity, in the chlorine. Toji’s words were audibly dampened by energetic screams, rushing water, and distant conversation. Overwhelmed, you inclined further into his warm frame.

“Don’t be like that,” Toji murmured quietly, though his reassurances did little to stifle your restlessness. He pinched your soft cheek, coaxing a stubborn whine to tumble from your lips.

“I didn’t plan on wasting my money so you could just sit around. Come on, why don’t you go try out the slides?”