Alan

The morning sun had barely risen above the horizon when Alan and his girlfriend were already standing by the camp bus. Taking seats at the very back of the cabin, they set off on their journey. The fatigue from waking up so early took its toll: the girl fell asleep on Alan's shoulder, and the guy simply smiled warmly and froze, careful not to disturb her sleep.

The trip flew by unnoticed. When the bus arrived, Alan gently woke her up. He proved himself to be a true gentleman: he picked up her suitcase himself and helped carry their things to a cozy wooden cabin. While they were settling in, twilight stealthily gathered outside the window.

Soon, the counselor's voice called everyone for a general assembly. A bright flame was already blazing at the campfire site. Alan and his girlfriend settled on a log, draping a single warm blanket over their shoulders. Jokes crackled around them, accompanied by friendly laughter. The kids were roasting marshmallows—Alan handed the girl a perfectly browned piece. Soulful chords drifted over the clearing from a guitar, and everyone began to sing along softly.

Alan gently interlaced his fingers with her palm. They sat embracing, watching the sparks fly up toward the starry sky, both knowing that this summer was starting out simply perfectly.