The brilliant lights of the fireworks, reflected in the children's eyes, were mesmerizing. Roxanne stood beside Lucian, gazing upward, but constantly glanced at Archie and Estella, perched on Lucian's shoulders, fearing a fall. Fortunately, they remained safe until the fireworks ended.
Archie, reluctant to descendโit was his first time on his father's shouldersโconcealed his feelings. He submissively allowed Lucian to set him down, politely thanking him, "Thank you, Mr. Farwell." Lucian merely nodded.
The crowd remained captivated by the romantic atmosphere. Then, the band onstage fell silent. Roxanne, having kept an eye on Benny, instantly noticed the change and shifted her gaze. Benny stood center stage, microphone in hand, having emerged from behind the drum set. The guitarist subtly plucked his strings, drawing attention.
"Ahem. Everyone, please listen to this little boy. He has a favor to ask," the lead singer announced, requesting the audience's attention. Roxanne and the others anticipated Benny's request. Seeing his serious expression, Roxanne felt a surge of contentment, even shedding a few tears.
"Hello, everyone. My name is Benny," the boy's voice, amplified by the microphone, resonated through the venue. He showed no nervousness facing the large crowd. "I came to watch the fireworks with my mommy and brother, but I got lost. If anyone sees someone looking for a child, please tell my mommy I'm here. She's very pretty!"
After a brief pause, he added, "My uncle might be looking for me too. He's very tall and handsome. There are two children around my age with them."
Roxanne chuckled at Benny's description. Even Lucian smiled faintly. Perhaps they were too eye-catching; heads turned toward them. Benny spotted Roxanne, excitedly calling out, "Mommy!"
The crowd parted, allowing them to reach Benny. "Mommy!" Benny ran to Roxanne, microphone in hand. She bent, beaming, pulling him into a hug. "You scared me, Benny. Luckily, you're so smart."
Benny patted her back. "I'm sorry, Mommy. But I'm very smart. I won't follow bad guys." He'd run toward the band, following the music, believing it safer, planning to borrow a microphone to find Roxanne. The band, kind and friendly, readily agreed to his request.
Turning, Benny thanked them, "Thank you all." They replied, smiling, "You're welcome. We're glad you're reunited." They added, "Your son is very gifted musically. Consider a music academy." Roxanne grinned in agreement.