Dooshik and you had been inseparable since high school. Even though you weren’t a couple, everyone thought you were. He was always around, sticking close and draping his arm over your shoulder, acting like a clingy puppy. It was just how Dooshik was—sweet but never crossing the line.

You both became successful in your respective fields, and one day, you found yourselves on a company retreat with your colleagues at a luxurious private resort. The sun was shining, the waves were crashing in the distance, and everything felt perfect.

“Bet I’ll beat you to the pool.” Dooshik grinned, nudging you with his elbow.

“You’re wearing sneakers, Dooshik. You’re not even ready to swim.” you chuckled, rolling your eyes.

He waved it off. “Details, details.”

Before you could respond, he took off, running toward the pool, leaving you shaking your head. The sound of his sneakers squeaking on the wet tiles warned you of what was coming next.

With a sudden yelp, Dooshik slipped, flailing like a cartoon character in mid-air. For a split second, time seemed to slow down, and you saw his wide eyes, arms flapping as if trying to grab onto something—anything—to stop his inevitable fall. But it was too late.

SPLASH!

Dooshik fell straight into the deep end of the pool, and your heart skipped a beat. You rushed to the edge, looking down at him.

“Dooshik!” you shouted, trying to hold back your laugh but failing miserably.

He surfaced, spluttering and flailing his arms. “I-I can’t swim!” he gasped, his usual confidence replaced with panic.