whispered words of fear and hate float in the air as he comes from across the isle to defend me from pain. big brothers are good for things like that. i marvel through teary eyes at the power love has, turning one from complacency to anger.

later that day, bearing an impressive black and blue the four of us go to the lake. the water is soothing, and so is your presence. you smile at me with your eyes as i teach rascals how to swim, and my heart jumps into my throat, because you still get to me.

later that evening we watch fireworks on the beach. i can hear him whisper something in her ear, and then a giggle. it always makes me smile when they do that. again i am in awe at the apparent spell she has cast over him, shining in his dreamy eyes. the world seems to fade when he looks at her that way.

i love fireworks, and even better i love the people sitting beside me sharing them. sweet reminders of summers beauty, and young love.