Bonfire 488
487 The Fireworks and the Fall
Beth’s eyes shimmered with warmth, a gentle heat rising within her, while her smile shone brightly, full of quiet anticipation. “Mm, I’m really looking forward to it,” she murmured softly.
Tony reached out, taking her hand with a tenderness that made her heart flutter, and guided her carefully onto the yacht. The salty sea breeze teased the edges of her dress, lifting the fabric just enough to make her feel alive. Nearby, an old phonograph began to crackle to life, filling the air with the familiar melody of their cherished song from years gone by.
As they stood together on the wooden deck, Tony cleared his throat, his nerves making his voice slightly unsteady. “Beth, there’s something I’ve been meaning to tell you,” he said, searching her eyes for a sign of understanding.
Beth turned to him, her gaze soft and encouraging. “I’m listening,” she replied, her voice a soothing balm to his anxiety.
He inhaled deeply, gathering his courage, his eyes shining with earnestness and deep affection. “We’ve only been together a month, but… I already know you’re the one I want to share my life with,” he confessed, his words hanging in the air like a promise.
Just then, the night sky erupted in a cascade of fireworks, vivid colors painting their faces in glowing hues of red, gold, and blue.
Tears welled up in Beth’s eyes and finally spilled over. She rose onto her toes, wrapping her arms tightly around Tony’s neck, and whispered against his ear, “Tony, me too.”
On the shore, Lucas stood silently beside Sloane, his arm draped protectively around her shoulders as they watched the couple embrace beneath the sparkling lights. The happiness radiating from them stirred a sharp pang of guilt deep within him. He realized he had never given Sloane a moment this magical, this full of romance.
I’m not a very good boyfriend, he admitted to himself, the thought heavy on his chest.
Sloane seemed to sense his inner turmoil and gently squeezed his hand. “What’s on your mind?” she asked softly.
Lucas tightened his hold on her fingers, his voice low and honest. “I’ve never surprised you like this. I’m not really good at being a boyfriend, am I?”
A tender smile curved Sloane’s lips. “I don’t believe that. Just being with the one you love every single day—that’s the biggest surprise of all.”
Unable to contain his feelings any longer, Lucas pulled her close, pressing a fierce, passionate kiss to her lips. The intensity of his emotions poured out in that moment, raw and unfiltered.


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