Belle was going to lose her mind. She loved her friends, she did, but when she planned on going to the fall fireworks festival in town, it was with her best friend in mind only.

It was supposed to be special. Her and her best friend, side by side, watching the fireworks. Her best friend would say, "Aren't they beautiful?" and Belle would gaze at her with a soft smile and say, "Yes." And then her best friend would look at her, they would lock eyes, and Belle would lean in and kiss her and they'd live happily ever after. Then, she would—

"Hello? Earth to Belle?"

She startled, ears flicking in surprise. She looked at her friend Carter, who was giving her a confused look. "Huh?" she said aloud. "Were you saying something?"

Carter rolled his eyes. "Girl, yeah. But clearly you're too busy being lesbian as fuck in your head with an imaginary version of your best friend."

Belle flushed bright red, looking around to see if her best friend had shown up yet and overheard. When she didn't see her, she shoved Carter's shoulder, making him cackle. "Shut up, you ass!"

"What? It's true," he mused. "She's coming right?"

"Yes." Belle smiled at the thought, butterflies buzzing around in her stomach. But then her smile faded as she added, "And so is literally everyone else."

"Don't worry. I got you," Carter chirped. "Just give me a signal and I'll find a way to get you two some alone time." He winked, giving a thumbs up. "I'll be the best wingman ever."

Belle thanked him with a side hug, and they walked through the festival to the meet up spot. It was November, and the air was cool with a gentle breeze, brown and orange leaves decorating the worn pathways. Colorful stalls were set up along the sides, advertising desserts and savory snacks, cute trinkets, claw machines, and more. Fairy lights were strung through the trees, painting the evening atmosphere with a golden finish.

They walked the path to an expansive field where people had laid out blankets and small set-ups to sit and relax and watch the fireworks light up the sky once it became fully dark out. And crowding around a fountain in the center was Belle's friend group. But most importantly, her best friend was there, waiting.

Belle brightened, rushing over and throwing her arms around her from behind, squeezing tight. "I feel like it's been ages!" she exclaimed. "I've missed you so much!"

Belle let go, eyes shining, her smile so wide that it showcased the gap between two of her front teeth. Her heart felt full. "Would you like to do something with me before the fireworks start? Just me and you?"