Farewells

The beach.

White sands spanning a kilometer or so, glistening in the midday sun as children and adults alike frolicked. Parasols and picnic blankets littered the sand, coupled with people lying on their stomachs for that sunkissed tan.

Not a cloud was present in the sky. Gentle waves hit the shore with a calm splashing sound as if it was lulling someone to sleep. Indistinct noises filled the area, and joy lingered in the air despite the intense heat that rained down on the place.

It was the perfect atmosphere for the beach, too perfect, in fact, that Hajime couldn't help but let out an exhale of contentment. Putting his right hand above his head, he tried to pinpoint where his family set up their picnic blanket. This was their first beach trip in years, and he had decided to enjoy every moment of it.