The Unspoken Promise

Game Time.

The sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden glow over the Sinclair backyard as the kids ran wild, laughter echoing through the air. A tennis net had been hastily set up, and Jace and Vivienne stood at opposite ends, rackets in hand, ready for an impromptu match.

"Prepare to lose, Sinclair!" Jace taunted, bouncing the tennis ball on the ground.

"Dream on, Bellington!" Vivienne shot back, determination sparking in her eyes. "I've been practicing all summer!"

"Practicing? More like daydreaming about your TikTok followers!" Jace laughed, tossing the ball into the air and serving with a swift swing. The ball sailed over the net, and Vivienne lunged to return it.

"Nice try!" she called out, sending it back with a fierce hit. The two exchanged playful volleys, each point punctuated by shouts and cheers from the onlookers—Sofia, Lydia, and Serena, who was bouncing excitedly on her toes.

"Go, V!" Sofia cheered, waving her arms dramatically. "Show him who's boss!"

"C'mon, Jace! You got this!" Lydia chimed in, laughing. "Just aim for her feet!"

Serena, the youngest of the group, clapped her hands. "You can do it, Viv! Just aim for his head!"

Jace pretended to flinch at Serena's comment. "Hey, no aiming for heads! That's not in the rules!" He laughed, barely dodging Vivienne's next shot, which landed just out of reach.

"Maybe I'll change the rules just for you!" Vivienne said with a wink, grinning as she scored another point.

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After a few more rounds, the kids grew restless. "Pool time!" Lydia shouted, pointing toward the glimmering water. "I call first dive!"

The tennis rackets were dropped as they raced toward the pool, shedding their shoes and diving in with joyful splashes. Jace and Vivienne followed, laughing as they jumped into the cool water.

"Cannonball competition!" Jace yelled, positioning himself at the edge of the pool. "Last one in has to do dishes!"

"Game on!" Vivienne replied, preparing to leap off the side. The others quickly lined up behind them, ready to follow suit.

With a synchronized shout, they all jumped, creating a massive splash that sent water cascading over the sides of the pool.

"Whoa! That was epic!" Lydia squealed, wiping water from her face. "I think I've got the best splash!"

"Not even close!" Jace declared, puffing out his chest. "I'll show you how it's really done." He swam to the side, preparing for another cannonball.

"Are you ready for round two?" Serena shouted, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"On the count of three!" Jace said, counting down with his fingers. "One... two... three!"

They leaped again, laughter filling the air as they hit the water, creating even more chaos. As they surfaced, Jace looked over at Vivienne, who was shaking her hair out, droplets flying everywhere.

"Hey, what's your secret for getting your hair to look so good, even when it's wet?" he asked, grinning.

Vivienne rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress a smile. "It's called 'don't try to impress you,' Bellington."