What if the UC mission had ended well (Season 5, Episode 1)

Part 42

As the laughter subsided, Lucy shifted slightly, her expression turning a bit more serious as she realized she had to address an urgent matter.
Lucy- Ugh, speaking of things... I really need to use the restroom.
Angela grimaced, recalling her earlier trip.
Angela- Trust me, you're not going to like it. The bathrooms here are disgusting. Honestly, you might be better off finding a spot outside somewhere, but that's a risk.
Lucy sighed, clearly not thrilled about her options.
Lucy- Great, just what I wanted to hear. But I don't think I'm up for risking a run-in with some unsuspecting beachgoers. So, the gross restroom it is.
Before she could get up, Celina chimed in.
Celina- Wait up, Lucy. I've got to go too. Let's make it a miserable trip together.
Lucy laughed, grateful for the company, even if it was for something as unappealing as a trip to the public restrooms.
The two girls stood up, brushing the sand off their legs before heading off towards the restrooms together. As they walked away, the group they left behind resumed their relaxed conversations, the playful energy from earlier still lingering in the air.
About ten minutes later, Lucy and Celina made their way back to the group. They both wore expressions that made it clear they had not enjoyed their trip to the restroom.
Lucy- Angela, you weren't lying. That was disgusting.
Celina- Honestly, I think I'd rather just hold it next time.
Angela couldn't help but laugh at their disgusted faces, even though she sympathized.
Angela- Told you! Now you understand why I was suggesting the great outdoors.
Lucy- (shaking her head) Never again.
The group shared a light-hearted laugh as Lucy and Celina sat back down, settling in once again. Just as they were getting comfortable, Jack and Lia appeared, their faces filled with excitement.
Jack- (grinning at Tim) Uncle Tim, can you please come and play with us in the sand? We want to build the biggest sandcastle ever! Please?
Lia- (bouncing on her toes) Yeah, we need your help to make it really big! (Just imagine Jack is 4 and Lia 3)
Tim looked at their eager faces and couldn't help but smile. How could he possibly say no to that?
Tim- Let's do it!
The kids cheered, and Tim got up to follow them to the best spot for sandcastle building.
As Tim walked off with Jack and Lia, the rest of the group turned their attention to the trio, watching them search for the perfect spot to start building. The kids were already chattering excitedly, their little hands digging into the sand as Tim began to draw a rough outline of the sandcastle with his finger.
Angela- He's going to end up doing most of the work, and they'll get all the glory.
Lucy- Isn't that how it always goes? But he looks like he's having fun too.
The girls continued to watch as Tim got more involved, helping the kids pile up sand into a large mound that would form the base of their castle. Jack and Lia took their roles very seriously, patting the sand down with their tiny hands and shaping it as best as they could.
After a few minutes, Jack suddenly stood up and looked around, a thoughtful expression on his face.
Jack- (looking up at Tim) Uncle Tim, we need water! The sand isn't sticky enough.
Lia- (nodding in agreement) Yeah, we need lots of water to make it better!
Tim- Water coming right up, boss!
He grabbed a nearby bucket and headed toward the ocean, the kids watching him with anticipation. As Tim filled the bucket with water, the girls exchanged amused glances.
Celina- They've got him on water duty now. I bet this is just the first trip of many.
Lucy- Poor Tim, but at least he's keeping them entertained.
Tim returned with the bucket full of water and carefully poured it over the sandcastle's base, showing Jack and Lia how to mix the water into the sand to make it stickier. The kids eagerly followed his lead, their hands now covered in wet sand as they molded and shaped the castle walls.
But it wasn't long before Lia noticed that the sand was drying out again.
Lia- (frowning) Uncle Tim, we need more water!
Jack- (nodding seriously) Yeah, more water!
Tim chuckled, clearly enjoying the kids' dedication to their project.
Tim- (playfully sighing) Alright, I'm on it. More water coming up!
He grabbed the bucket and headed back to the ocean, while the girls watching from afar couldn't help but burst into laughter.
Angela- They've got him running back and forth like he's their personal assistant!
Celina- This is too funny. I wonder how long they'll keep sending him back for more water.
Lucy- As long as it takes to get that castle perfect, I guess.
As the group continued to chat and enjoy the warm beach day, Bailey, Aaron, John, James, and Wesley wandered over to join the girls. The new arrivals settled down on the sand, exchanging greetings and catching up on the latest conversation.
Bailey- What's so funny over here?
Angela- Oh, just watching Tim be completely bossed around by the kids. They've got him running back and forth to get water for their sandcastle.
James- I'm not surprised. Tim's always seemed to have a soft touch with the little ones.
John- Looks like they're building something serious over there.
Celina- You're not wrong. Tim's practically doing all the work while they just supervise.
Lucy- They've already sent him back for water twice, and I don't think they're done yet.
The group settled into a comfortable rhythm of chatting and laughing, all the while keeping an eye on the ambitious sandcastle project. Tim, now fully invested, was kneeling in the sand, carefully shaping towers and walls with the wet sand that Jack and Lia had insisted on. The kids, for their part, were deeply focused on their task, mimicking Tim's movements and diligently patting the sand into shape.
After another trip to the ocean for more water, Tim noticed that they were starting to run low on good sand. He turned to Jack and Lia, a mischievous glint in his eye.
Tim- You know what would really help? If we dig a hole right here to get more sand. What do you think?
Jack- Yeah! A big hole!
Lia- Let's do it, Uncle Tim!
With their newfound mission, Tim and the kids began digging a hole next to the castle, scooping out fresh sand to continue building. The kids were giggling and chatting as they helped, the hole growing deeper with each scoop.
Meanwhile, back with the group, the conversation had shifted to other topics—work, weekend plans, and recent movies—when Lucy glanced over at Tim and the kids, a look of surprise crossing her face.
As the group continued their relaxed conversation, they kept a casual eye on Tim and the kids. The sandcastle had grown considerably, but it seemed that Jack and Lia had lost interest in the construction part. Tim, ever the playful guy, decided to take things in a new direction.
Tim- (grinning) Hey, how about we make you guys part of the beach? Let's see if we can bury you both up to your shoulders!
Jack and Lia's eyes lit up with excitement at the idea.
Jack & Lia- Yeah!
With their excited approval, Tim began digging the hole deeper and wider. Jack and Lia helped at first, but as the hole grew bigger, they soon found themselves standing inside it, with Tim carefully shoveling sand back over them. The kids stood still, wiggling occasionally as the sand rose higher around their small bodies.
As the laughter and conversation continued among the group, Lucy glanced over at Tim, Jack, and Lia, a look of surprise and amusement crossing her face.
Lucy-  Guys, you've got to see this.
Everyone followed Lucy's gaze and turned to see Tim halfway through burying Jack and Lia in the sand. The kids were giggling uncontrollably, their little faces beaming with excitement as the sand gradually rose higher around them.
Celina- Oh my gosh, look at them! They're loving it!
Angela- That's adorable!
Bailey, Aaron, John, James, and Wesley, curious about what was happening, all stood up and started making their way over to the sandcastle site. The rest of the group followed, eager to see the spectacle up close.
As they approached, Tim looked up, a wide grin on his face as he continued to shovel sand around the kids, who were now buried up to their waists.
Tim- Look who's joining the party! Don't worry, I've got everything under control here.
Jack- Uncle Tim, keep going!
Lia- Yeah, keep going, Uncle Tim!
The group gathered around, their smiles and laughter filling the air as they watched the scene unfold. The kids were clearly thrilled, enjoying the feeling of being buried in the sand while Tim made sure to keep it light and playful.
John- (teasing) Just make sure you don't lose them in there. We might have trouble finding them later!
Tim- Don't worry, I've got it under control. I wouldn't lose my best helpers!
As Tim continued to pack sand around the kids, John and Celina started joining in, helping to smooth out the sand and shape it around the kids' bodies. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and camaraderie as they all contributed to the playful project.
Bailey- This is too cute. We should get a picture of this!
Lucy quickly pulled out her phone, snapping a few photos of the scene in addition to the ones she already took earlier. The kids grinned up at the camera, their eyes shining with happiness as they posed, buried in the sand.
Jack and Lia beamed with pride, clearly enjoying the attention and the novelty of their situation. Tim gave the sand one final pat, making sure it was secure but not too heavy.
Tim- (standing back to admire their work) There we go! Now you two are officially part of the beach.
Lia- (giggling) We're like sand statues!
Jack- Yeah!
The group continued to laugh and chat as they admired the kids' new sandy "outfits," making sure they were comfortable and not too tightly packed.
As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, casting a golden hue over the beach, the group decided it was time to start freeing the kids from their sandy encasement. Carefully digging around Jack and Lia until they were able to wiggle their way out, laughing as they shook off the remaining sand.
Angela- So, how was it being buried in the sand?
Jack- It was so cool!
Lia- Yeah! Can we do it again later? Please?
As the group helped the kids brush off the last bits of sand, they all made their way back to their original spot on the beach, the sun beginning to set in the distance. The day had been full of laughter, bonding, and unexpected fun, and as they settled back down, there was a shared sense of contentment and joy in the air.
Lucy- (smiling at Tim) Tim. You really made their day.
Tim- It was my pleasure. Honestly, I think I had more fun than they did.
As the group settled back down, the warmth of the setting sun casting a golden glow over the beach, Tim and Lucy exchanged a knowing glance. The playful energy from earlier lingered, and with the kids now happily entertained and the rest of the group deep in conversation, Tim leaned over to Lucy.
Tim- (softly) How about we take a quick dip in the water? Just the two of us.
Lucy- I'd like that.
They stood up together, brushing off the last bits of sand, and made their way towards the water. The gentle waves lapped at their feet as they waded in, the cool water a refreshing contrast to the warm air. As they ventured further out, the sounds of the beach became more distant, the world around them softening into the serene rhythm of the ocean.
Once they were far enough from the shore, Tim turned to face Lucy, a playful glint in his eye. Without a word, he pulled her closer, and Lucy wrapped her legs around his waist, her arms draped over his shoulders. The water buoyed them up, making it easy to stay close as they swayed with the gentle push and pull of the waves.
Tim- I think this is one of the best parts of the day.
Lucy- I'm not going to argue with that.
Tim's hands found their way to her hips, holding her securely as they floated together. The distance from the shore gave them a sense of privacy, even though the group could still be faintly seen in the distance. With a soft smile, Tim leaned in and kissed her, the kiss deepening as they lost themselves in the moment.
Lucy- (softly, between kisses) You're being a little bold, Mr. Hands-on.
Tim- (chuckling, his voice low) I'm just making the most out of it.
Lucy couldn't help but laugh softly, her fingers threading through his hair as she kissed him again. Tim's hands, still holding her hips, slowly slid down, finding places they probably shouldn't have been considering they were in public. But with no one around to see, they both indulged in the thrill of their secluded moment.
The waves gently rocked them as they continued to steal kisses, their connection deepening with each passing second. It was as if the rest of the world faded away, leaving only the two of them and the endless horizon stretching out before them.
Tim- (whispering against her lips) We should probably get back before they start wondering where we went.
Lucy- Or before we get caught.
Lucy reluctantly loosened her grip around Tim's neck, sensing that it was time to head back. Tim, always one to seize the moment, turned around to face away from her, his arms still holding her securely. Even though they were making their way back toward the shore, their playful energy lingered.
Lucy- Not so fast. Let's savor this a bit longer.
Tim grinned over his shoulder, clearly enjoying the playful banter. As they walked, the water gradually decreased in depth until it reached around Tim's stomach. At this point, with the shoreline now within sight, Tim decided it was time for one last splash.
Tim- (mischievously) Ready for one last surprise?
Before Lucy could respond, Tim shifted his weight and, with a quick movement, let himself fall backward into the water. The sudden plunge caught Lucy off guard, and they both disappeared beneath the surface with a splash.
For a few seconds, the world was just a cool blur of water and bubbles. Tim and Lucy surfaced together, laughing and gasping for air, their faces lit up with delight. Tim's arms still encircled Lucy, keeping her close even as they emerged from the water.
Lucy- (laughing) You're an idiot.
Tim- (smirking) That's what you love about me.
Lucy, still giggling, tried to regain her balance in the water. Tim, however, was already plotting his next move. With a playful shove, he sent Lucy off balance, and she stumbled, splashing into the water.
Lucy- Oh, it's on!
Determined not to be outdone, Lucy tried to tackle Tim, grabbing at his shoulders and attempting to pull him down. Tim, however, was agile in the water, dodging her attempts and easily keeping himself upright.
Tim- You'll have to do better than that!
Lucy- Just you wait!
Lucy lunged at Tim again, this time managing to get a grip on his waist. She tried to drag him down into the water, but Tim resisted, using his strength to push her off. They both laughed and splashed, their playful fight escalating as they tried to outmaneuver each other.
Finally, Tim managed to grab Lucy around the waist and, with a triumphant grin, threw her into the water with a good-natured shove. Lucy fell backward with a splash, her surprised squeal blending with her laughter as she resurfaced, dripping and grinning.
Lucy- Oh, it's on now!
With renewed determination, Lucy launched another attack. This time, Tim seemed to be more willing to let her have a chance. She succeeded in pulling him toward the deeper water, her efforts finally paying off. With a final push and a determined shove, Lucy managed to get Tim off balance, and he fell backward into the water, sending a splash in all directions.
Lucy- Got you!
Tim- We'll see about that.
The others on the shore had been watching the playful spectacle with a mixture of amusement and admiration. Celina, Angela, and the others laughed as they observed Tim and Lucy's energetic and light-hearted wrestling match in the water.
As Lucy celebrated her victory with a triumphant cheer, the group on the shore couldn't help but get caught up in the excitement. Celina and Angela, in particular, were animatedly cheering Lucy on.
Celina- (yelling with enthusiasm) Go, Lucy! Show him who's the boss!
Angela- (laughing) You've got this, Lucy!
Lucy's confidence surged as she heard their cheers. She waded closer to Tim, her determination set on maintaining her upper hand. But Tim, ever the playful opponent, had other plans. With a mischievous grin, he watched as Lucy approached, clearly enjoying the game.
Tim- I wouldn't get too comfortable.
Before Lucy could react, Tim swooped in with surprising speed and easily lifted her off her feet. She let out a squeal of both surprise and laughter as he held her up, his strong arms making light work of her resistance.
Lucy- (laughing) Hey, no fair!
Tim- All's fair in love and water fights!
With a dramatic flourish, Tim spun around and, with a gentle but firm motion, tossed Lucy into the water. She went down with a splash, her laughter mixing with the sound of the waves as she submerged and then quickly resurfaced, shaking water out of her hair.
As Tim and Lucy continued their playful water fight, Tim's move sent Lucy into the water, her laughter turned into a surprised squeal. Her top shifted, and she quickly tried to cover up with her arms.
Lucy- Timeout! Timeout!
Tim immediately noticed the situation and moved in front of her, positioning himself to shield her from the group on the shore. His back was turned to the others, creating a natural barrier.
Tim- Hold on. I've got you.
As Lucy adjusted her top, Tim kept himself positioned to shield her. He made sure to keep her as covered as possible and maybe stole one or another glance while he did that. And maybe, just maybe his hands moved up there and gave them a squeeze before actually helping her out, his fingers lingering longer than necessary.
Lucy- (raising an eyebrow, with a teasing tone) Is this your idea of helping? Because I don't think a squeeze was in the original plan.
Tim- You know, you have to take advantage of the opportunities that present themselves.
Lucy's teasing comment brought a chuckle from Tim as he continued to shield her. He kept his posture carefully angled to protect her modesty while she adjusted her top, his grin widening as he played along with her playful tone.
Tim- You know, you have to take advantage of the opportunities that present themselves.
Lucy- (rolling her eyes, still smiling) Well, I guess I'll just have to remember this as part of the game. Thanks for the cover.
Tim- No problem. You okay?
Lucy- Yeah, I'm fine. But just to be clear, I won.
Tim's playful grin remained as he continued to shield Lucy from the others. He glanced over his shoulder, ensuring that the group was still focused on their own fun, then turned back to Lucy.
Tim- Not too sure about that. I think there might be a rematch in the near future.
Lucy- We'll see about that. For now, I'm calling victory.
With a chuckle, Tim and Lucy started making their way back toward the shore. Lucy occasionally glanced down to make sure her top was securely in place, adjusting it subtly as they walked.
The shallow water gradually became deeper again as they approached the shore, and Tim kept a light grip on Lucy's arm to help guide her through the uneven seabed. The cool water lapped around their legs as they walked, the sun dipping lower and casting a warm, golden light over the beach.
When they reached the edge where the water met the sand, Tim finally turned to face Lucy.
Tim- Alright, I concede. For now.
Lucy- Smart choice. Maybe you'll have better luck next time.
As they all settled down, the group's laughter and chatter filled the air. The sun continued its descent, casting long shadows and deepening the hues of the sky. The scent of the sea mingled with the sound of the waves, creating a peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere.
The evening continued with more laughter, stories, and a relaxed, happy vibe. As the sun set, the beach gradually darkened, and the group prepared for the transition from day to night, feeling content and connected after their playful escapades. The memories of the day would linger as a cherished part of their time together.
The group began to gather their things, signaling the end of a memorable day. The cool breeze picked up slightly, adding a fresh touch to the warm, lingering sand beneath their feet.
With everyone's things packed and the beach left cleaner than they found it, the group started heading towards their respective cars. The sky had transitioned to deep purples and blues, with a few early stars beginning to peek through.