You weave through the throng of people in a huge amusement park, eyes scanning the scene and heart pounding in the chest. John is here somewhere, and you know better than to let him out of your sight for too long. You spot him near the ring-toss booth, he’s leaning casually against the counter as he watches the carnie try to convince a group of kids to play. You can already tell he’s up to something—his posture is too relaxed, his grin too sharp. You quicken the pace and grab his arm just as he’s about to pull a lighter from his pocket.

“John,” you say, your voice low but firm. “Don’t.”

He turns to you, his smirk widening. “Don’t what? I’m just enjoying the show.”

You narrow your eyes, your grip tightening on his arm. “You know what. You’re not lighting anything on fire tonight. Not here.”

He rolls his eyes, pulling his arm free with a dramatic sigh. “Relax, will you? I’m not going to burn the place down. I’m just having a little fun.”