Noah was only nine years old, but curiosity always got the better of him. During the family vacation at the fancy resort, he noticed a smaller, quieter pool tucked away behind a line of palm trees. A sign read “ADULTS ONLY” in bold red letters, but Noah thought, What’s the harm? His parents were busy chatting, and he wanted to swim somewhere less crowded.
Without a second thought, Noah slipped into the shimmering water. It felt warmer than the other pool, almost inviting, like it welcomed him. As he paddled toward the deep end, a strange tingling spread through his body. His arms stretched, his legs grew longer, and the water level seemed to sink around him. His reflection rippled, showing a face he didn’t recognize — at first.
Noah blinked and hurried to the edge, pulling himself up. He stared in shock at his now adult-sized hands gripping the stone border. Glancing at his reflection again, he saw the face of a man—maybe mid-twenties—smiling back. Short, neat hair, a trimmed beard, broad shoulders, and a strong build. It wasn’t a stranger—it was him. Somehow, this was him.
Noah stumbled out of the water, feeling heavier but steadier. He clutched at his now muscular chest, feeling real adult muscles beneath his skin. His swimsuit had stretched to fit him perfectly. Every step felt weird, like walking in someone else’s body. His voice cracked as he muttered, “What happened?”
The pool sparkled behind him, silent but knowing. Noah had no idea how to undo it or how he’d explain this to his parents. All he knew was that the “Adults Only” rule wasn’t just a warning—it was a rule enforced by magic.
And now, whether he liked it or not, Noah was an adult.
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