"Is it safe?" Light blue eyes stare up at me, apprehension etched on Claire's face. I have to stifle a laugh.
"I'm certified to launch these Claire. You're safe with me," Quickly the atmosphere in the boat changes, to what I'm not sure. Claire seems deep in though, as if pondering the key to life. "Claire?"
"I was so not expecting this," all she can do is blink up at me with a dazed look on her face. What is she thinking about? Claire looks back down at the packages and suddenly back up at me, a mischievous smile on her face. "Are you going to let me light one?"
"Well," I hesitate, even though I already know the answer is no. "It isn't really safe for someone who hasn't been properly trained in the safety protocols…"
"You're with me! I'll be fine," the trust she instills in me is overwhelming. I've already done so much wrong by her… Would letting her do this make it right? "Why are we lighting fireworks anyway? I thought the fireworks festival was in the summer?"
"Popuri wanted them," I answer curtly. What Kai ever saw in Popuri I will never know.
"That's so romantic," Claire gushes dreamily. She quickly recovers herself, blushing scarlet and looking away from me. "I just mean it's a cute idea. For a wedding you know."
"I don't," Claire stares up at me, dumbfounded. Truthfully, I'm not good with words and in turn crap at romance.
"Well, are we going to light these or what?" Claire asks, changing the subject entirely. I breath an inward sigh of relief, it's easier to talk about fireworks than all that mushy stuff.
"We have to set them up on the platform, or they'll spark all over the carpet. I'll do it," Claire nods in agreement and watches while I position a few on the platform at the back of the boat. "Okay all set."
"So which one do I get to light?" Claire asks excitedly, climbing over and sitting on the back of the bench next to me. Her aquamarine eyes beg me to let her light one.
"Look Claire, I just don't think it's a good idea. What if we get caught? It's illegal. Besides, I-" I reach for my hat and curse myself when I realize it's not there. I swallow and force myself to choke out the words. "I don't want you to get hurt."
I sound like a fool, but she doesn't seem to mind. "That's very sweet of you, but-" Claire is drowned out by the deafening bang of a bright green firework. I know I should start lighting mine, but I'm quite caught up in watching Claire. Her face is alight with childlike wonder. Her blond hair falls in waves around her shoulders and without thinking I brush it behind her ear. Claire turns into my hand and her eyes widen slightly. Before I can stop myself I plant a soft kiss on her lips.
"We should start on those fireworks now," I say, beginning to turn away. Claire's hands find their way onto either side of my face and I let her guide my lips back to hers. I sigh and wrap my arms around her, overwhelmed by how right it feels to be with Claire.