327 One Great Summer

After we said goodbye to our parents, we headed back to Dakota and Noah's house. In Dakota's truck, he gave my hand a gentle squeeze. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine. It's just bittersweet. I loved seeing my parents again, but I hate to see them go so soon, too." I watched the rich green scenery pass. The trees were green and verdant, teeming with life.

"It seems funny that in a few months, the weather would change, and all this will be gone." I shrugged. "I guess it's the circle of life."

He chuckled, letting out a deep breath.

I smiled, too. "I'm so sorry. I guess I'm not going to be much company tonight."

"Come here." He stretched out his arm, and I cuddled to his side. "You still have me."

I nodded, looking into his eyes. "Thank goodness."

"Hey," he said, smiling. "Let's have a bonfire tonight. We haven't had one in a while. And with the threat of the Devil gone, at least for a while, then it's time to celebrate."