Chapter 7 — Fireworks and Fragile Hearts
I returned to the lodge, where the others were already setting up fireworks with the girls.
Of course, I was there mostly to make up the numbers, but… honestly, I didn't mind.
Still, my friends and I were having more fun just messing around and laughing with each other than watching the fireworks.
When only one fairy rod was left, I slipped away to sit quietly in a corner and enjoy it by myself.
Suddenly, I felt someone sit beside me. I jumped.
It was the girl with curly hair.
"It's very pretty," she said softly, pointing at the glowing tip of the fairy rod.
Before I could respond, she blew on it, extinguishing the light. Darkness fell, and I tensed when her hand brushed mine.
"Are you scared?" she asked playfully.
"There's nothing to be scared of," I replied quickly, trying to sound brave.
I leaned back slowly, trying to put some distance between us—but she crawled closer.
"Are you hoping for… that kind of thing?" she teased.
"No!" I blurted out immediately, my heart racing uncontrollably.
"Really?… Liar!" she said mischievously.
Before I could react, she leaned closer, pressing against me. Her voice was soft, reassuring:
"Don't be afraid. There's nothing to be afraid of. I'll teach you."
The next thing I knew, her lips pressed against mine. I froze, completely unprepared.
Panic surged through me. I snapped, pushing her away.
I ran—heart pounding, breath shallow, unable to stop tears from welling up. I collapsed onto a nearby bench, overwhelmed.
"Hey… Seth? Is that you?"
I blinked through my tears. Belle stood there, gently wiping hers, her face calm and warm.
I quickly stood, patting my shorts awkwardly, unable to meet her eyes.
"Nice night," she said softly.
I still couldn't look at her.
"The scenery's pretty during the day," she continued, smiling, "but taking a stroll at night… it's even better."
She glanced at me, and added softly, "Want to go for a walk?"
I nodded silently, still too ashamed to meet her gaze.
And somehow, I knew this night wasn't over—not for us.
---