The 4th of July.

A holiday I normally wouldn’t be found celebrating. Well, at least before I knew you.

Now, I’ve come to appreciate it, even though Ireland truly is the best country in the world.

We’ve been with your family in your hometown all day, and it’s been great. We went swimming earlier today, then had a nice barbeque your dad made and tried teaching me how to make. (just told me how much I can’t cook…)

Now, we’ve gone to this large park where nearly everyone in town is to watch the fireworks. Chlorine still sticks to our skin even though we’ve changed, and the faint smell of smoke fills the air. You and I are on our own little blanket, and I’ve already taken off my jacket and given it to you, even though I told you to bring your own, because you said you were chilly. I think you just wanted me hoodie the whole time. Cutie.

After, we’re all gonna head back to your house for a bonfire, but right now, it’s all about the fireworks. The sun has just dipped below the horizon, and before I can get a word in, there’s a loud bang before an explosion of color in the sky ahead of us, which kicks off all the others.

It’s gorgeous, really. But what I’m focused on is you. You always told me you loved fireworks, but now I get to really see it. The way your eyes light up when you see them, smiling and pointing like a little kid. I can see the reflection of the colors in your eyes, and it's something I already know I’m never gonna be able to forget.

I wrap my arm around your shoulders and pull you closer, finally looking away from you and back at the light show in front of us.

“You’re so American, you know that..” I tease a bit, but the smile on my face holds nothing but warmth. Yeah, you’re American, but I think that makes me love you even more.