This short story was created for Taioraweek 2023, for Day 7's theme of Fireworks.
I kind of game jammed this and wrote the whole story in less than 24 hours. I hope you enjoy!.
Taichi fidgets with the sleeves of his Yukata as he walks down the streets of Odaiba. It takes him a great deal of will-power to keep his hands out of his combed hair, which would risk messing up all the hard work that his mother had employed in her laborious efforts. As he strolls this familiar pathway, his countenance is one of anxious energy and self-consciousness. Far more used to sneakers, his sandals make his gate slightly wobbly and awkward; feeling as though he would fall on his face if he dared to try to run in them. As he plods on past a group of older girls, they giggle and whisper amongst themselves, clearly at his expense. This incident does nothing for his already faltering confidence but, with cheeks flush with embarrassment, he continues on his journey. He will not allow himself to be thrown off track, after all, someone important is waiting for him; and he refuses to let them down again.
The young brunette has reason to be anxious; it was only a few short months ago that Taichi had gotten into that regretful fight with his best friend over spring break. Following some painful levels of miscommunication, not to mention a rogue Digimon virus presenting a nuclear-level threat, she had eventually forgiven him of course. While they haven't fought since, things continue to be awkward and tense between them; it is as though a fog has descended upon their relationship, making comprehension and communication rather difficult. Between their classes, family, friends, Taichi's soccer practice, and her work at her mother's shop they simply hadn't had the opportunity to sit down and hash things out. Now that summer break has arrived, the boy finally has the opportunity to address matters. In truth, Taichi misses the old days when he could confide in her about anything and in turn, she would trust him with some of her secretive thoughts and feelings. Tonight however, this would all change. Taichi is on a singular mission, a mission to reinvigorate the fires of their exceptional bond. The only problem is, Taichi isn't entirely sure of the cause behind their recent drift. Despite his hesitancy, he feels the best way to address this is head on, and only hopes that he won't get so tongue tied this time.
Taichi has perhaps never been so grateful that the apartment complex where the Takenouchi family lives stands in such close proximity to that of his own. After a few awkward minutes, the brunette makes his way across the building's spacious courtyard, through its modern lobby, up an elevator, and finally down the warmly lit corridor, stopping in front of the Takenouchi residence. He hesitates slightly now however, his hand hovering next to the doorbell; as though he is uncertain if he should press it. After taking a deep breath, he finds the courage to activate the electronic jingle. There is a brief quiet, followed by the call of a muffled voice, then the audible shuffling of feet as they approach the front door.
When the door to the Takenouchi apartment slowly swung inward, Taichi was met with the familiar face of Takenouchi Toshiko, Sora's mother. She is dressed, as she so often is, in traditional Japanese attire with her hair made up. "Taichi, good morning, you're here on time, slightly early in fact. And to think Sora was so certain that you would be late." She releases a light giggle but still retains her formal demeanor. "I must say you look quite dapper. I'm not sure if I've ever seen you wear black, never mind with your hair so well managed." After a brief pause, she seems to recognize that this could be taken as an insult, so she adds. "It suits you quite well, I think. I see a charming young man before me."
The boy's cheeks adopt a crimson hue. When he recalls the importance of the occasion, he bows deeply. Normally he would never be so formal with Sora or her family, yet his father's words from this morning are still fresh in his mind. "Uh yes…Thank you, Mrs. Takenouchi…I'm here to pick up Sora for the festival…with your blessing of course. She asked me to try my best to be on time, so…here I am."
Toshiko giggles once more, covering her mouth with her fingers in a vain attempt to conceal her reaction. She bows back at Taichi, playing along with the formality. Her tone then becomes more serious, while still maintaining a warm quality. "She just needs a few more minutes Taichi-dear. Usually, I would invite you in of course, but Sora has been getting ready with my assistance in the living room. I hate to leave you standing outside, but would you mind waiting out in the corridor? I could bring you a drink if you are thirsty, I know it's a warm one out there today."
"Yes of course, I'll wait as long as Sora needs. And no thank you, I figure we'll get something when we get to the festival grounds."
"Thank you for your patience Taichi dear, Sora will be along shortly." With these words exchanged, Toshiko softly closed the front door, the sound of her gentle footfall soon disappearing into the abode. The brunette exhales, having hardly shaken his frayed nerves. He decides to lean against the wall opposite the front door. He studies the yukata that he wears, the black robes though light, still feel rather alien to him. The boy had always felt more comfortable sporting bright and vibrant colors, but his father clarified that the traditional black color is often seen as a symbol of maturity and masculinity; and this is exactly how Taichi hopes present today to his lifelong best friend.
After about ten minutes Taichi is jostled from his thoughts, as he hears the metallic rotating of a door handle. The door opens once more to reveal Toshiko who smiles as Taichi. "Thank you Taichi for waiting so graciously, may I present your date for the evening, the elegant Takenouchi Sora."
A mother beaming with pride then steps aside revealing her daughter, who stands at the back of the genkan looking rather apprehensively at the floor. Taichi feels his breath leave his body as he gazes at his best friend. Sora is wrapped in a vibrant orange yukata with a silk-like texture. Unlike Taichi's attire, her robes are elaborately decorated with large white and black cranes flying against the backdrop of a red sun. Across her waist a red sash has been firmly secured, which has clearly been custom embroidered with orange flowers and the crest of love at this center. Her not quite shoulder-length hair was done up with a bright red ribbon. And lastly, the feature that truly took Taichi's breath away, her vivid hair was adorned with an all too familiar floral hair clip.
Toshiko's gaze passed between the evidently nervous young friends, and a smile crept upon her lips. "You know Taichi, it's common courteously to pay a compliment when introduced to a beautiful young woman." Her tone is playful and mischievous.
Taichi feels his heart beat rapidly in his chest. Looking back at Toshiko, he tries to speak but the words get caught in his throat.
"Mom, please you're embarrassing us." Sora speaks up for the first time, saving Taichi from an uncomfortable situation.
"Apologies, Sora dear, I was only teasing. You both look wonderful in your Yukatas. I suspect you two are in for a delightful evening, and if you head to the festival grounds now you will likely beat the crowds, and hopefully find yourselves a good spot for the concert. But first, if you would indulge your mother for a quick photograph, I would be most appreciative."
Without really waiting for a response, Toshiko produces a digital camera and encourages the duo to stand against the corridor wall together. Taichi and Sora stand awkwardly next to one another, their arms inelegantly hanging by their sides; as though they have never had their pictures taken before. They flash nervous smiles with deep blushes, and Sora's mother takes a handful of pictures. She then bids them to relax and strike a pose, so they both throw up peace signs, which makes Toshiko giggle as she snaps a few more photos.
"Sora you have the pouch with extra money securely tied to you, correct?" Toshiko questions after the photo session concludes.
"Yes mother, it's secure." Sora answers obediently.
"Good, my role in affairs is complete then. Now remember Jingu Gaien is one of the most popular firework festivals in all of Kantō, I read last night that the venue is expecting nearly a million people from around Japan. I trust you both, but I don't necessarily trust such a large crowd, so make sure that you watch out for one another. Stick together, the last thing you want is to lose track of one another. Oh, and Taichi, try your best to have Sora back home by around 11pm, though I understand the metro may be a bit backed up on your return journey." Toshiko, suddenly seems a little anxious herself to let them go, but then takes a breath and adds. "Now go enjoy the festival, you two."
"Thanks mom, see you tonight!" Sora calls as she grabs Taichi by the hand and begins dragging him energetically towards the elevators.
Taichi cannot tell which of their hands are drenched in sweat; the grasp clammy but firm. At first, he feels as if Sora is going to pull his arm out of his socket, but snapping out of it he soon joins her in rushing down the corridor.
"Be careful in those sandals and yukatas, you two, they aren't designed for athletics!" Sora's mother calls after them, right before they disappear around a corner.
It takes around forty-five minutes for Taichi and Sora to reach their destination. The first portion of their journey is filled with stolen glances and an uneasy quiet. As they board the monorail which connects Odaiba to Tokyo proper, the air of tension eases and the two best friends fall back into their old routine, quietly exchanging jokes and updating each other about recent summer activities. This was their first summer in many years without camp after all. Now that Sora was helping out with her mother's business a few days a week, she simply did not have the time. And though Taichi feigned a dwindling interest to his parents, in truth, he knew camp just wouldn't be the same without her. Whether they like it or not, these two Digidestined are growing up and that comes with many changes. The two young teens hope however, that they will continue to be an integral part of each other's lives. Ensuring this is, as mentioned, the primary reason why Taichi asked Sora to the festival tonight. Unfortunately, the boy's nerves prevent him from delving into the conversation during transit. He only hopes that the right opportunity presents itself during the festival.
When they arrive at the festival grounds, officials are just about to open the main area to the public. There is a small crowd already gathered outside of the entry gate, but the pair know that this is nothing compared to the sea of people which will be arriving across the next several hours. The festival consists of a large public park, several city blocks, which have been closed down for food, shopping, and entertainment, and most importantly the open-air stadium where the concert will be hosted. This popular sports arena will also be the site for the launch of around 10,000 fireworks. Taking her best friend by the sleeve, Sora secures them a spot in line. Taichi cannot help but to grin with delight when he sees just how excited she is for the festival to unfold before them; it is the most at ease he has seen her in months.
Once they pass through the gate, Taichi decides to let Sora take the lead, asking her what they should do first. After mulling it over for a moment, she ultimately decides that they should explore the local shops and street vendors before everything gets too busy. The young teens peruse a variety of traditional Japanese nick nacks and goods; ranging from toys like Kendama, Koma, and kites, to handmade crafts such as bento boxes and furin chimes. Because they are both wearing yukatas and lack backpacks they are limited as to what they can buy. When Sora spies a blue tenugui printed with the kanji for courage, she feels that it was practically made for her best friend, who used to sport a blue sweatband under his goggles. As it happens, Taichi spots a red ōgi fan with orange flowers just as Sora goes off to clandestinely make her purchase. The brunette has never been one for fashion, especially with the hair clip incident fresh in memory, but he instantly recognizes that this fan would suit Sora's yukata perfectly. When they reunite in the middle of the street, they excitedly attempt to reveal their gifts, only for their synchronized acquisitions to dawn upon them. Taichi and Sora break into a contagious fit of giggles, making enough of a scene that nearby festival-goers turn their heads to observe the young couple. Taichi ties the tenugui tightly around his head as a bandana, while Sora opens and closes her new fan a few times, admiring its quality.
"Great minds think alike." Sora says as her laughter slowly subsides. "I guess we're best friends for a reason, eh Taichi?"
Little does Sora realize it, but this statement warms Taichi's heart and lifts his spirits. A wide grin takes shape upon his lips. "You bet Sora, it's why we've always had each other's backs, through thick and thin."
Taichi can't help but notice how Sora's smile wavers just then, a wave of sadness seems to briefly wash over her features. But when he asks if everything is ok, she insists that she is simply growing hungry. And while the brunette worries that something he said perhaps unintentionally upset her, he resolves not to push the matter, afraid that he may risk ruining their afternoon. Together they walk off towards a collection of food stands. The wonderful scent of street food wafts through the air, drawing them in for a closer look. Both teens had skipped breakfast this morning, knowing that the allure of festival food would be impossible to resist. With stomachs rumbling, the duo agrees to sample a variety of food on offer. They order servings of karaage, yakitori, okonomiyaki, Takoyaki, grilled corn, and French fries in a creamy sauce. Hands full of delicious selections, they make their way to an open picnic table and set up their feast. Before digging in however, Sora rushes over to a nearby vending machine to purchase two sports drinks in order to help wash down their meals. With smiles plastered on their faces, the two young friends indulge themselves, tasting and discussing their favorites as they go.
When they are finished eating, they rest for a moment, basking in the feeling of their satiated tummies. After ensuring that the picnic table is clear and ready for its next guests, Sora turns to her best friend, asking him what they should do next. It does not take Taichi long to decide, as he had spotted a series of festival games set up in the park's central courtyard. His competitive spirit ignites itself into a furious blaze, and he becomes dedicated to winning his companion a prize. A beaming smile can be found on Sora's face on their walk over to the courtyard, she is all too familiar with her friend's driven nature, and though she will be happy regardless of the result, she finds herself flattered by Taichi's dedication.
Though the pathways and streets of the festival are still uncongested under the heat of an afternoon sun, the courtyard is rife with activity and noise. Children laugh and run between stations, friends and family members challenge one another, and couples try winning prizes for their significant others. The open square contains every traditional Japanese fair game, and a handful of international games as well. The duo ends up trying their hand at a variety of challenges to mixed results. Sora skillfully captures a goldfish with a net, but offers the prize to a grateful younger child. Taichi does manage to win a coupon for a free dessert from a ring toss game, but his competitive spirit remains unsatisfied, as this was not the sort of prize he had in mind for Sora. Eventually, they stumble across a Katanuki stall, where confident players attempt to carve out a shaped piece of pink candy using a needle, without breaking the image. A selection of large plush creatures awaits anyone who manages to complete this task. Sora watches and encourages Taichi, as he tries his hand at carving out a butterfly shaped piece of candy. He makes it about two thirds of the way when a portion of the upper-left wing snaps off, causing him to groan in frustration. A skilled athlete though he is, finesse had never been his strong suit.
After witnessing a discouraged countenance upon her best friend's face, Sora determines to attempt the game herself. She receives the same challenging shape, but after a few tense moments with Taichi's hand gripping at her shoulder, she free's the butterfly from its frame. The staff members and nearby patrons all applaud her deftness, but none are as elated as Taichi. Though he is still a bit perturbed that he did not win the prize for Sora, he beams with pride for his best friend's success. When Sora inquires about picking up her prize later, a staff member hands her a special ticket, which can be used to secure a prize at any point from a popular toy shop in Shibuya. After thanking the staff, Taichi and Sora make their way back to the park entrance, walking hand in hand.
As the heat of the summer sun bears down upon them, Sora asks Taichi how he would feel about spending his dessert coupon on some shaved ice for them to share. The brunette loves this suggestion and the two teens end up selecting a massive bowl of shaved ice with melon, strawberry, and orange syrups, as well as sweetened condensed milk, all topped with a variety of fresh fruit. Such a grand dessert could easily be shared by a family of four, but aided by the summer swelter, the two best friends make fairly quick work of their treat; Sora even saves Taichi's yukata from a falling piece of ice and syrup.
Feeling refreshed, the pair continue exploring the fairgrounds. They spend some time enjoying a nearby arcade, and Sora even purchases a traditional umbrella in the hopes of protecting them from the warming but harsh rays of the afternoon sun. After a few hours have passed, Sora proposes to Taichi that they heed her mother's advice and find a good spot in the stadium ahead of the concert. With more than an hour until the main event begins, Taichi eagerly agrees, believing this to be the perfect opportunity to speak with Sora about their relationship. Upon entering the stadium, they realize that they are among the first hundred or so people to arrive, and they find a spot with a clear view of the center stage. Once they take their seats, Sora opts to rest her head against Taichi's shoulder, a content smile clear upon her face.
"Sora…" Taichi begins anxiously.
"Yes, Taichi?" The orange haired girl responds from her comfortable place by his side.
"I've…uh…been meaning to…" The brunette boy begins before being cut off by a familiar voice.
The duo looks up to see Mimi calling out to them, sporting a light green yukata with a bamboo like pattern. She is flanked by a group of students from Mimi's grade that they recognize but do not know personally. She expresses surprise at finding them amongst the crowds, and politely asks if her and her friends might intrude. Sora, always warm and welcoming, invites the group to join them; Mimi eagerly takes a seat to the left of her orange haired companion. Though always happy to see his friends, Taichi does his best to suppress a feeling of immense disappointment; as he feels there is no way that he can foster such an important conversation with Sora, when a fellow Digidestined is within earshot.
"I had no idea you were coming to the festival!" Sora expresses her genuine surprise.
"I was planning on inviting you to join me, but then I remembered that you mentioned that you had plans with Taichi this weekend. Little did I know you two were attending the festival. I tried inviting the others, but Yamato and Takeru had plans, Jou was studying, because of course he was, and Koushiro didn't like the idea of being crowded in with a million people. Can't say I blame him; these festivals do get a bit wild. You both look radiant by the way, Sora that yukata matches you beautifully. And Taichi I don't think I've ever seen your hair tied like this. The pony tail is almost reminiscent of a samurai, I love it!"
"Thanks Mimi." Taichi responds rather bashfully. He himself isn't wild about the look, but he is relieved to hear at least that it looks good. "It was my father's suggestion, as part of a more traditional look."
The friends and former adventuring partners spend the next hour catching up. Before they realize it, the venue is full to bursting, and the crowd's excitement swells as the concert series is about to begin. More than a dozen of Japan's top musical artists will soon be taking turns performing their hit songs to a very lively audience. One of Mimi's classmates, generously passes out vibrant glow sticks that she purchased from a nearby vendor. As the first act begins, a booming cheer reverberates across the stadium. Mimi implores her two bashful friends to stand up and dance alongside her, after some coaxing, Sora turns to Taichi and calls into his ear over the noise of the band.
"I'll dance if you dance with me Taichi." Her warming breath, creating a tingling sensation against his inner ear.
With a crimson hue, Taichi nods, and Sora takes his hand, encouraging the boy out of his seat. Mimi squeaks with delight upon her successful entreaties. At first, their movements are awkward and anything but graceful. But as the minutes pass and they gaze into one another's eyes, they abandon perceptions and lose themselves to the music; letting their bodies do what comes naturally as they wave their glowsticks high into the air. Mimi cannot help but to stop momentarily, admiring these two best friends as they release their inhibitions and embrace the festivities. Across several performances, they dance like this for over an hour, occasionally stopping long enough to catch their breaths and share in a hearty laugh. The evening swiftly becomes one that they hope they shall never forget.
Between one of the sets, a staff member appears on stage to announce that the firework display would be occurring in about fifteen minutes after the next two bands play.
Sora timidly tugs at the sleeve of Taichi's yukata just then, getting his attention. "I'm really sorry Taichi, but I have to use the bathroom. The shaved ice was delicious but I think it ended up doing me in. I want to hold it, but I worry that the restroom lines will be unmanageable as everyone is trying to leave. Wait here and save my seat, I will do my best to come back on time."
Looking around at the massive crowds and instantly recalling Toshiko's request, Taichi unequivocally insists on sticking by Sora's side. She feels awful for making them risk their seats like this, but Taichi cups her chin tenderly and assures her that they will find a good spot to watch the fireworks from, even if they can't make it back into the stadium's seating area. Mimi promises the duo that she will do her best to hold their seats, but the expression on her face shares the same trepidation about their odds of successfully returning in time.
Taking Sora firmly by the hand, Taichi guides her through the unruly crowds, all the way up the stadium stairs. The bathrooms inside the stadium have already accrued vast lines which snake along the main concourse. Seeing that the situation is getting out of hand, a nearby police officer announces that several bathrooms outside the stadium are currently available. Without hesitation, the two best friends rush out of the stadium and to the nearest park restroom. They are relieved to see that the officer spoke true, and that there are only a handful festival goers on location. Not wanting to risk a repeat of this situation later this evening, Taichi decides to take the opportunity to relieve himself as well.
Now feeling at ease, the pair meet back up outside of the restrooms. What appears to be a test firework explodes overhead in brilliant colors, catching their attention. A quick glance back at the overcrowded stadium speaks volumes; there is no way they are making it back to seats in time, assuming their seats are even still available. An expression of frustration briefly overtakes Sora; however, she swiftly purges it and adopts a face of sheer determination. When it becomes clear that Taichi shares her resolve to find a new vantage point, the orange haired girl takes her friend by the hand and together they rush across the park's pathways, searching for that ideal spot.
Unfortunately, the friends soon find that they are far from the first people who have thought about viewing the explosive display from the natural comfort of the park. Every bench stands occupied, and the open fields are cluttered with families and couples who sit or lay upon picnic blankets. The dense thickets and collection of trees ensure that only certain areas of the park make for idea viewing. The teens continue their search, but when the pyrotechnics begin in earnest, Sora's movement halts; her face tilted down towards the cobblestone path, she then releases her grip on the brunette boy. Taichi is about to speak to her when he notices the bitter tears running down her cheeks, dropping with a silent patter on the walkway below.
Taichi feels his heart sink within his chest, the evening had been magical, but now everything is falling apart. He refused to let it fall apart. Just as another burst of fireworks went off, Taichi noticed a nearby squirrel dart across the grass and scurry up a tree; likely terrified by thunderous sounds which filled the air.
Taking Sora by the hand once more he leans in close. "Sora, I have an idea." He gestures to a large nearby tree with branches more than thick enough to support their combined weight.
Wiping her eyes, Sora cannot help but to smile softly at the suggestion, most people probably could not make such a climb, but she and Taichi have been climbing trees since they were little. "But Taichi, what about our yukatas? I want to see the fireworks of course, but I don't want to upset my mother by ruining our robes."
"Your yukata is beautiful Sora, I want to protect yours as well, but mine is just a simple black one. I will go up first and help lift you gently. If something happens to my robes, I know my parents will understand."
With eyes full of emotion, Sora cannot help but to smile at her best friend, nodding her head in approval of his plan. As colorful fireworks dazzle around them, Taichi carefully makes his way up the tree, with Sora standing ready to catch him if he falls. His traditional sandals offer poor traction, but he refuses to let that deter him. As Sora, feared his yukata snags and tears openly slightly on a low hanging branch, but he pays it no mind. With a labored breath he makes it at last to one of the core branches. He tests its ability to bear weight; when satisfied, he reaches down and offers Sora his hand.
Ever so carefully, Taichi helps lift his friend into the tree, pulling slowly to help ensure the safety of her custom robes. When she steps carefully onto the branch, Sora, overwhelmed with positive emotion, practically leaps into his arms, surrounding the brunette with a crushing hug.
"Thank you, Taichi." She calls in a choked voice.
"Anytime Sora." He responds warmly.
As the duo settle into the tree, Sora gently leans the weight of her body against Taichi. From the treetops they have an interrupted view of the nighttime sky. As the rockets dazzle and light up the heavens, Taichi cannot help but notice how Sora keeps stealing glances at him. It suddenly occurs to him that this is the moment he had been waiting for all day.
Taking advantage of a lull in the intensity of the glittering display, Taichi takes a deep breath. "Sora, I've…uh…been meaning to talk with you. And it's rather important…"
Sora turns to him with an expression which suggests curiosity and a willingness to engage. The rate of fireworks has slowed intensely now, with entire seconds passing in darkness between explosions. It is just enough to occasionally cast light upon the faces of the two young teens.
"You know, a lot has changed since our days in the Digital World. It's a bit nerve wracking to think about but we are growing up pretty fast. I mean we're in middle school already, and we'll be attending high school before we know it. And well…with everything going on recently…with our misunderstanding a few months ago. Your very important to me…and I just want to make sure we are ok…I just…"
In the hushed silence between bursts of fire above, Taichi goes silent. When his face is next brightened by a soft red glow, Sora has pressed her lips gently but passionately against his. The brunette's eyes go wide at first, but as instinct takes over, he reciprocates the kiss. When they finally pull back, their breaths are shallow and their hearts race with delight.
"You and I Taichi…we're fine…we're more than fine…I mean to say…I think we are ready for that next step…if that's something that you want of course."
"Sora…I've realized that I do want that…more than anything…but I'm just afraid…I don't want to ruin…"
But Sora presses a finger to his lips, shushing him. "You won't ruin anything Taichi. I realized I've been overthinking things, and I suspect that you've been overthinking things as well. The whole hairclip fiasco…I'm sorry. It was a thoughtful gift…my heart was just overwhelmed. When we were kids, it sometimes felt like we didn't even have genders, we were simply best friends. Suddenly you started viewing me as a woman, I could see it in the way that you looked at me. My mind was racing with the implications. But that's no excuse…I should have been there for you during the fight with Diablomon. It's always been my intention to have your back, but I failed you that day, and it could have cost you your life."
"And I failed you Sora, had I not gotten so tongue tied, so unable to express myself to you for the first time in my life. Instead of getting defensive and argumentative, I could have simply talked to you. But I don't want to fight anymore Sora, I don't want to point blame. I just want to know that we will always be there for each other."
Sora cannot help but to smile at this sentiment. Without warning, Sora reaches back and undoes the hair tie, which holds his ponytail into place. She then runs her hand through his hair, returning it to its natural messy state. "To be honest Taichi, I much prefer you just the way you are."
She pauses for a moment then continues, appreciating the smile which now forms on Taichi's face. "Much like dancing at the concert, I think it's time that you and I stop thinking, stop worrying, and let our feelings take over. If we do that, somehow, I just know that we'll be ok."
Instantly adopting Sora's advice, Taichi leans in with confidence as their lips meet once more, in a second and even more passionate embrace. Within seconds, the pyrotechnicians release the full might of their arsenal; illuminating the Tokyo airways with a near constant bombardment. But Taichi and Sora do not notice this apparent change in the atmosphere, as they have become lost in the moment and in one another's loving gaze. Somehow the fireworks felt insubstantial compared to the sparks which filled the air between them with a newfound love and understanding.