The Harrington house loomed ahead, all sprawling lawn and screaming kids, the unmistakable sound of cannonballs and shrieking laughter echoing from the backyard.

Max had dragged you by the hand the whole way here, chattering about how Steve had finally gotten the pool cleaned, how the water was actually warm, how Robin had promised to bring snacks.

And now here you were.

Sandals kicked off by the gate. Towel slung over your shoulder. Max already vanished into the chaos, a blur of red hair and sun-freckled limbs.

It was loud. It was chaotic. It was... exactly what summer was supposed to feel like.