The distinct smell of chlorine fills the air. The sound of two sets of footsteps enters the eerily quiet pool area.

It's been quite a while since the final bell rang. As for why we're here...

Unable to win against the stubborn whining about wanting a drink before going home, I ended up being dragged along.

Because of this, it feels like we bicker over the smallest things just by walking together. Right now is exactly like that.

"I never did."

He sneers with that characteristically obnoxious stride of his. Ugh, that smile. It's so irritating. What is he, a grade-schooler?

Feeling exhausted, I keep walking and ignore him—

When I don't react like I usually do, he pauses, seemingly finding it no fun.

Then, in an instant, his face fills my entire field of vision. "Don't ignore me."

Startled by him popping out without warning while I was spacing out, I instinctively push him aside.

Stumble—

Our eyes meet for a split second. I see his expression stiffen. Uh-oh, this isn't right.

Splash!

Frozen for a moment, I quickly crouch down and peer beneath the surface of the water. "...Hey, are you okay?"

The water parts and his head emerges. Through his wet bangs, he squints his eyes and lets out a smirk.

"You scared me. Why did you jump out at me like that?" Hearing my small complaint, he rests one arm on the edge of the pool. The sound of water dripping echoes unusually loudly.

Then, his other wet hand reaches out and grabs my arm.

"I can't be the only one who gets soaked."