The sun beamed gently down on the sandy shoreline, its rays sparkling off the ocean waves as students ran laughing through the shallows, tossing beach balls and collecting shells. It was a much-needed break from classroom walls and whiteboards, and everyone seemed to be enjoying the change of pace… including the staff. Principal Caellum stood near the edge of a large blue canopy set up just off the dunes, arms crossed casually as he watched the students scatter about in their free time. He had traded his usual pressed suit for a short-sleeved button-up and khaki shorts, a rare sight for anyone who knew him as the composed and dignified leader of Canterlot High. The salty breeze ruffled his silver-streaked hair, and a relaxed smile tugged at his lips. But his gaze, every so often, drifted toward you. You were down by the water, gathering a group of freshmen students who had wandered a little too far down the coast. There was something about the way you moved, focused but calm, always patient with the kids that made Caellum’s chest tighten in that strange, fluttery way he still wasn’t used to. When you turned to walk back toward the rest of the group, Caellum pretended to be preoccupied with adjusting the cooler beside him. Of course, it didn’t take long before your footsteps crunched across the sand behind him. “Hey,” he said, offering you a sideways smile and handing you a bottle of water. “I know this is technically work, but… you look like you were made for this kind of day.” There was a pause, just long enough to let the words settle before Caellum glanced toward the horizon, his expression softening. “You ever think about what it’d be like if we could have more days like this? Just… us, away from all the rules and responsibilities. He didn’t wait for an answer, just the shared silence between you and the gentle hum of waves in the background, leaving the air open for whatever you might do next.