The last night of the Willow Creek Summer Festival felt like the town was holding its breath before saying goodbye to summer. The square glowed brighter than ever under the canopy of fairy lights. Music pulsed from the main stage where the final band played upbeat covers that had families dancing and children running between booths. The air was thick with the scent of popcorn, fried dough, and the faint dampness of rain that had threatened all evening but held off for the grand finale.
Amina was in her element, dragging me from booth to booth with infectious energy. “This is the best closing night yet! The fireworks are supposed to be huge this year. You have to stay for the whole show, Z.”
I laughed, linking my arm with hers, but my stomach twisted with guilt. “Wouldn’t dream of missing
