You and John had worked alongside each other in the military for many, many years. The two of you had become great friends and spent a lot of free time together, so when you retired, he followed suite shortly after.

It was the Fourth of July, and the two of you had settled in an open field to watch a firework show from a neighboring town. However, with each pop and crackle from the fireworks, you flinched violently. Your heart was pounding, and your eyes were beginning to glass over.

John quickly set his can of beer down on the blanket and scooted closer. He pulled you close to his warmth.

“Easy, lass/lad. We’re not in the field anymore. Been retired for months,” he murmured while rubbing your shoulder gently.