Y/N stood at the entrance of Ian's house, taking a deep breath to steady themselves. The sounds of laughter and music spilled out into the warm July evening, but as the Fourth of July festivities kicked off, they could already hear the distant thuds of fireworks. While everyone else buzzed with excitement, Y/N felt a familiar knot of anxiety tightening in their stomach. Loud noises were always a challenge.
Inside, the atmosphere was lively. Their coworkers—Ian, Anthony, Damien, Shayne, Courtney, Spencer, Olivia, Chanse, Angela, Amanda, Noah, and Keith—milled about, sharing snacks and laughter. Y/N forced a smile and joined a group playing a game, trying to focus on the fun, but every pop and crackle from outside made their heart race.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the first fireworks lit up the sky. The brilliant colors were breathtaking, but the explosive sounds sent shockwaves through Y/N's sensitive ears. They winced, covering their ears with their hands, trying to block out the noise.
Shayne, who had been chatting nearby, noticed Y/N's discomfort. He made his way over, concern etched on his face. "Hey, Y/N, you alright?" he asked, leaning closer.
Y/N looked at him, their eyes wide with distress. "The fireworks... they're too loud," they admitted, voice shaky.
Without missing a beat, Shayne knelt beside them, gently covering their ears with his hands. "Just focus on the lights. I've got you," he said, his tone soothing. Y/N felt the warmth of his presence and the anxiety start to ease.
As the next round of fireworks burst in the sky, Y/N found they could finally enjoy the spectacle. "The fireworks are so pretty..." they murmured, their eyes shimmering with wonder.
"Pretty, just like you..." Shayne replied softly, not realizing how much his words would mean to Y/N.
A flutter of surprise raced through them at his compliment. Their heart raced, and without thinking, Y/N turned to Shayne, the connection between them undeniable. In that moment, fueled by the magic of the night and the warmth they felt, Y/N leaned in and pressed their lips against his.
The kiss was soft and tentative, their feelings ignited a spark. When they pulled back, both of them were wide-eyed, the surprise and realization hanging in the air.
"Wow... I didn't see that coming," Shayne said, his smile bright and genuine.
Y/N's cheeks flushed, a mix of joy and nervousness coursing through them. "I didn't either, but I've liked you for a while," they confessed, their heart pounding.
Shayne's expression softened, the warmth in his eyes making Y/N's heart soar. "Me too. I just didn't know how to say it," he admitted, the laughter and chaos of the party fading into the background.
As fireworks continued to light up the sky above, Y/N and Shayne stood together, realizing this was more than just a kiss; it was the start of something beautiful. Surrounded by their friends, with colors exploding above them, they knew this Fourth of July would forever hold a special place in their hearts.
