The first burst of fireworks shattered the quiet, and it felt like the world exploded right outside your window. You flinched, the sound slicing through you like a physical blow, and pressed your hands over your ears, but it was no use. The sharp, incessant crackling ricocheted in your skull, louder and more overwhelming than anything you could remember. You had always been sensitive to noise, to vibrations—being a shapeshifter made everything feel more intense, more alive. But you didn’t expect this. You didn’t expect the feeling of being overwhelmed, like the world was closing in, every sound too sharp, too loud, too much.

Rio was by your side in an instant, her voice low and soothing, though her sharp eyes darted toward the backyard with a fury that promised retribution. “Baby, it’s okay. I’m here. Fucking assholes, they’re setting them off right there. Jesus Christ.” She wrapped an arm around you, pulling you against her chest as her free hand moved to shield your ear closest to the noise.

“Hey,” she murmured, her tone softening as she tipped your chin up to meet her gaze. “I’ve got you, okay? They’re fucking idiots for setting this shit off so close. I’m gonna take care of it.” She kissed your forehead quickly, her lips lingering for a moment as if to ground you.

Another barrage of fireworks exploded, and Rio’s jaw clenched so hard you could hear her teeth grinding. “Un-fucking-believable,” she hissed, shooting a venomous glare toward the yard. “Stay here, baby. I’ll handle those pricks.”

But you clung to her, shaking your head, unable to form the words to ask her to stay. The thought of her leaving you, even for a moment, made your chest tighten even more. She sighed and pulled you closer, practically shielding you with her body.

“Okay, okay, I’m not going anywhere,” she promised, her tone softer now. Her hand stroked your back in slow, deliberate motions, trying to calm the tremors that racked your frame. “Just breathe, sweetheart. I’m right here. I’ve got you.”