You tossed the blanket out in front of you, smoothing the fabric as it settled on the emerald grass. You jumped, slightly alarmed by the arms that tightened around your waist.

“Oh! You startled me!” Your boyfriend laughed, sitting down and pulling you onto his lap.

“Sorry about that,” he said, and kissed your cheek. “I think it’s starting soon.” A few moments passed, with other groups of people setting themselves around you on blankets and towels of their own. This was one of the rare moments you spent in public together. With everybody engrossed in the show and in each other, the chances of his facing recognition were slim.

You leaned back on his chest as the first fiery blossoms crackled up above. Fleeting diamonds of every color; crimson, sapphire, jade, and gold speckled the sky, disappearing in the midst of their fall back to earth. Your boyfriend stared at you with a bright smile. Feeling his breath on your neck, you turned your attention away from the fireworks.

“What?” He laughed at your confusion.

“You just look so excited.” At this, you grinned.

“I am excited. I love these!” He tightened his grip on you and rested his chin on top of your head.

“This is nice. I wish we could come here more often.” You laughed.

“And do what, stare at the grass? They don’t have fireworks very often.” He shook his head, messing your hair in the process.

“Not for the fireworks! Just to be here. I like being here, I guess. With you.” He nudged you gently in the waist with the side of his elbow, as if to support his words with a gesture.

“It’s nice to be outside with you for once.” He sighed, settling atop your head once again.

“I wish we could come out all the time. I’m really sorry about that.” You turned to face him with an expression of irritation. He leaned back slightly, surprised by the burning frustration in your eyes.

“Don’t apologize! I’m perfectly happy. Now shut up and watch the fireworks.” You kissed him gently on the lips before turning back to face the show. His laugh greeted your ears comfortably, and he returned his attention to the sky.

“I really love you,” he said, soft enough that only you could hear.

“I love you too.”