The promise.

Somewhere only we know- Jace.

I was sitting on the couch, my textbooks and notes spread out on the coffee table in front of me.
Senior year was no joke, and the pressure to keep my grades up was relentless. But even as I tried to focus on my homework, I couldn't ignore the soft, hesitant footsteps approaching the living room.
Avery appeared in the doorway, clutching a piece of paper in her small hands. She looked nervous, her big eyes wide and uncertain. I put down my pen and smiled at her.
"Hey, kiddo. What's up?" She shuffled her feet, staring down at the paper before finally looking up at me.
"Jace, can I ask you something?"
"Of course," I said, sitting up and patting the spot next to me on the couch. "Come here."
She walked over and climbed up beside me, handing me the paper.
I unfolded it and saw that it was a flyer for a Daddy-Daughter Dance at her school.
My heart sank a little, knowing how absent our dad was. He barely paid any attention to us, and I could see the hope and worry in Avery's eyes.
"There's a dance at school," she said softly.
"It's for dads and their daughters, but... but I was thinking maybe you could come with me instead?" The vulnerability in her voice broke my heart.
I reached out and gently tilted her chin up so she was looking at me.
"Avery, I would love to go with you," I said, my voice full of sincerity.
"I'd be honored." Her face lit up with a bright smile, the kind that made all the struggles and sacrifices worth it.
"Really? You mean it?"
"Absolutely," I replied, wrapping an arm around her shoulders.
"We'll make it the best night ever. I promise." She threw her arms around me, hugging me tightly.
"Thank you, Jace. You're the best." I held her close, feeling a mix of pride and sadness.
I wished our dad could see how amazing she was, but I was also glad I could be there for her in his place.
"Anything for you, Avery. You're my favorite little sister, after all."
She giggled, pulling back to look at me. "I'm your only little sister!"
"And that makes you extra special," I said, tapping her nose playfully.

Two weeks later I stood in front of the mirror, fumbling with my tie. I'd never been great at these kinds of things, but tonight it felt especially important to get it right.
Avery's laughter echoed from down the hall, and I couldn't help but smile.
She'd been buzzing with excitement all week.
When I finally managed to get the tie somewhat presentable, I headed to the living room where Avery was waiting.
She looked adorable in her little dress, her eyes sparkling with happiness.
''Are you ready to go?"
"Absolutely," I said, holding out my arm for her to take.
"Shall we?" She giggled and took my arm, and together we walked out to the car.
The drive to the school was filled with her excited chatter, and I couldn't stop smiling. This was her night, and I was determined to make it perfect.
When we arrived, the gym was decorated with streamers and balloons, the sound of music and laughter filling the air. Avery's eyes widened as she took it all in, and she squeezed my hand tightly.
"Thank you for coming with me," she said softly.
"Thank you for inviting me," I replied, giving her hand a gentle squeeze.
"Let's go have some fun."
We spent the night dancing and laughing, and I made sure Avery felt like the most special girl in the room. She danced with her friends, introduced me to her teachers, and even insisted on getting our picture taken at the photo booth.
Every time I looked at her, she was smiling, and that made every effort worth it.
A song called ''Somewhere only we knew'' really touched me, Avery and I danced and as we sway to the music, memories of the past flood my mind.
I remember all the times I've comforted her, wiped away her tears, and made her laugh. She's my little sister, and I would do anything to keep her safe.
The thought of anything bad happening to her makes my chest tighten.
The song continues, and I pull Avery closer, feeling the warmth of her tiny frame against mine.
I know I can't shield her from everything, but I promise myself I'll try my hardest.
She deserves the world, and I want to give it to her. Avery rests her head against my chest, and I close my eyes, letting the music and the moment envelop us. I hope she knows how much she means to me, how much I love her.
As the song comes to an end, I kneel down to her level and gently brush a strand of hair from her face.
"You're my little star, Avery," I tell her, my voice choked with emotion. "I'll always be here for you, no matter what." She smiles and wraps her arms around my neck, hugging me tightly.
"I love you, Jace." "I love you too, Avery," I reply, holding her close.
"Always."

As the night drew to a close, we walked back to the car, Avery's head resting on my shoulder. She was exhausted but happy, her eyes half-closed with contentment.
"Did you have a good time?" I asked as we drove home. "
The best," she murmured.
"You're the best brother ever, Jace." I felt a lump in my throat, and I reached over to gently squeeze her hand.
That night, as I carried her to bed and tucked her in, I made a silent promise to always be there for her, to always make sure she felt loved and cherished. She deserved nothing less.
I wished we could go somewhere only we know.