Work Text:
Bradley sat on the couch next to your Uncle Pete, both of them engrossed in Game One of the World Series when you stepped in front of the TV, dressed as Penny Lane. You had dyed your hair to match Kate Hudson’s, styling it in loose curls, and you were wearing a pair of low rise jeans with a cropped camisole and a suede jacket with fur trim.
“Time to get dressed for the party,” you smirked, noting how his eyes moved appreciatively over your form, earning him a smack on the back of the head from Maverick.
“Keep your hands to yourself, Bradshaw,” Mav warned, standing to kiss your temple on his way to the kitchen. He was still adjusting to your relationship with Bradley, though it didn't surprise him that you ended up together. He simply didn't want either of you getting hurt. “You look nice, Squirt. Have fun tonight.”
“Thanks, Uncle Pete,” you replied, turning your attention back to Bradley as you held up a vintage ‘70s button down shirt you had picked up at a thrift store for his costume.
He sighed and let his head fall back against the couch at the sight of the shirt. “You were serious about me doing Almost Famous too?”
“C’mon, Brad! This costume is so low effort, and you promised if I agreed to go to the party you would dress up with me,” you reminded him, stepping closer to drop the shirt on his lap.
You typically weren't a party-goer, and since you started dating your best friend a month earlier, he had encouraged you to become more social. This particular party was being thrown by a couple of his baseball teammates at the beach, and it was expected that most of the school would be there.
He lifted the shirt to inspect it and then looked back up to you. “I promised?” he asked, reaching with his free hand to pull you down so you were sitting on his lap. “Doesn’t sound like something I’d promise.”
“You did,” you nodded, poking his nose with your finger. “Now, come on. We’re gonna be late.”
Bradley kissed you before standing with the shirt in hand, gently placing you in the spot on the couch he’d just vacated. “Just the shirt. I’ll be right back.”
You laughed as he headed off to his room to change, grumbling about your choice in costumes. When he returned a few minutes later, the bright smile on your face made him regret all of his previous complaints.
“How does it look?” he asked, chuckling as you bounced on your toes happily.
“You’re the perfect Russell Hammond. One last touch,” you moved toward him, tousling his hair before sticking a fake mustache on his upper lip and kissing him when he tried to protest. “You want me to go, right?”
He shook his head with a smirk. “Okay, but you owe me,” he teased, grabbing the keys for his Bronco off the table. “We’re leaving!” he called out to Maverick, ushering you out the door.
The drive to the beach was peaceful, the radio playing oldies that you both had grown up on and enjoyed. You were nervous though, and Bradley sensed it. His hand reached over to squeeze yours when he finally parked the car.
“It’ll be fun, you’ll see. You know Josh and Mike,” he reassured you. “And if you wanna go home, just let me know.”
You nodded and climbed out of the truck with him, letting his large hand take yours as you headed for the bonfire. The sun had just set, the last streaks of purple and pink in the sky as night took over, and the large fire illuminated everything around it. People in all kinds of costumes were dancing to the loud music playing on a boom box, having a good time.
Several people approached to greet Bradley, complimenting your costumes when he introduced you as his girlfriend. Eventually you found his teammates hanging out around a keg, and Bradley reached for the cups, intent on pouring some of the amber liquid for both of you, but you protested, placing a hand on his.
"I'd rather we didn't," you began, concern in your voice.
He kissed you gently. "Okay, that's fine," he replied, putting the cups back without hesitation. You had been vocal about wanting him to stop drinking, and he respected your wishes. "Wanna dance?"
Your unease lifted, replaced by a smile as you nodded. "I'd love to," you said, grateful for his understanding and the dance that awaited you in the flickering light of the bonfire. The energy of the party was addictive, and you found yourself enjoying it more than you thought you would.
As the night progressed, you and Bradley danced together in perfect harmony, swaying to the music under the enchanting glow of the bonfire. The surrounding whispers of conversations, the crackling of the embers, and the distant sound of the ocean waves created a soothing backdrop.
The party had calmed down, and it felt like time had slowed, allowing you to cherish this intimate moment. In Bradley's embrace, you found both comfort and excitement. His large hands guided you with a gentle rhythm, speaking to your deep connection. You tilted your head back, your eyes meeting his, and for a moment, everything else faded into the background.
A soft breeze swept through, tugging at your costumes and causing you both to shiver. Bradley tightened his hold around you, making sure you were warm and secure. His lips met yours once more, a declaration of the affection he had for you.
"I don't want this night to end," you whispered against his lips.
Bradley smiled and held you closer. "Me neither," he replied, his voice filled with warmth and longing. "But don't worry, we’ll have more nights like this."
As the night wound down, you and Bradley held each other close, savoring the warmth of the dying bonfire and the love that had filled your hearts throughout the Halloween night. The memories of laughter, dances, and shared moments would remain, a testament to the magic you had experienced.