"The Free! Boys"

It was a hot afternoon at the beach and the Free! group was resting after swimming. Haruka Nanase was near the sea, staring at the water as if nothing else existed. Makoto Tachibana was talking to Rin Matsuoka, while Sousuke Yamazaki remained silent by his side. Further back, Natsuya Kirishima, Nao Serizawa, Asahi Shiina and Ikuya Kirishima were still arranging things.

You were walking alone along the shore when, without realizing it, a stronger-than-normal wave dragged one of your sandals out to sea.

—Ah—!

You tried to catch up to her, but someone was faster.

Haruka entered the water without hesitation and emerged as calmly as she breathed. She returned to you, leaving the sandal in front of your feet.

—Here.

You remained still for a few seconds.

-Thank you…

Makoto approached immediately with a friendly smile.

Are you okay? That wave came out of nowhere.

Rin watched from behind, arms crossed.

—If you're going to walk so close to the water, at least watch where you're going.

—Rin —Sousuke said, in a low tone.

Natsuya let out a light laugh.

—What a great welcome for someone who clearly just wanted to take a walk.

Nao smiled calmly.

—At least they have a good way of presenting themselves.

Ikuya barely glanced at you, serious but attentive, while Asahi lifted the umbrella that the wind almost blew away.

You were still holding the sandal, a little embarrassed.

And Haruka, looking at the sea again, murmured:

—You should be more careful.

It was a simple phrase… but for some reason, you felt that this wouldn't be the last time you would see them.