Sallie's POV
Todd blinked, and I caught something dark flickering behind his eyes before he pushed it away. Rather than answering my question, his fingers found mine. "These fireworks are beautiful, Sallie. Let me show you."
His touch sent warmth shooting up my arm as he guided me toward the massive windows overlooking the lawn where fireworks painted the night sky.
Purple bursts exploded overhead, shifting into intricate patterns that made my breath catch. For a moment, every worry I'd been carrying seemed to dissolve into those brilliant colors.
When the last firework faded, a swarm of drones took over the darkness. They danced through the air, first forming delicate flowers, then a towering birthday cake, before finally spelling out a glowing message: [Happy Birthday!] Behind the words, an adorable cartoon girl in a hoodie beamed down at us, her smile radiating pure joy.
I couldn't remember the last time I'd witnessed something this extravagant and breathtaking.
