The third day dawned with a gentle haze over the ocean, the kind that promised clearer skies by noon. Alex woke to the sound of distant gulls and the faint clatter from the kitchen. He stretched, his muscles loose from yesterday’s beach time, a subtle energy lingering from the night’s private indulgence. 

No second thoughts clouded his mind; instead, a quiet anticipation built for whatever the day held. 

He padded down the hall in shorts and a tank, finding Ryan and Jake already up, nursing coffee at the table. 

Ryan looked refreshed, his hair still damp from a morning run, while Jake scrolled through his phone, occasionally chuckling at something. ...