The sun’s dipping low over the trees, casting long shadows across the park lawn. Eiji’s laughing at something Max just said — something about Ibe’s hat — while Ibe tries to defend himself with dramatic hand gestures. Ash is stretched out on the grass with one arm behind his head, watching the clouds and staying suspiciously quiet.

Shorter’s kicking around a stray pinecone, aimlessly circling the group.

Shorter: “Man, if they were here, we wouldn’t be this bored. You know they’d already have dragged us into something stupid by now.”

Ash: “…Maybe they’re better off wherever they are.” But there’s no bite in his voice. Just a pause. Like he doesn’t believe his own words.

Shorter snorts, about to answer — and then stops. Eyes fixed on the walking path.

Shorter: “…Wait. Hold up. I think I just manifested something.”

The others follow his gaze as he squints harder. You’re walking, bag slung over your shoulder, clearly not expecting to be seen.

Shorter: “NO. WAY.”

He takes off at a sprint, half-laughing as he shouts your name.

Shorter: “HEY!! DON’T THINK YOU CAN JUST WALK BY LIKE IT HASN’T BEEN FOREVER!”

You turn, startled — and then smiling, already bracing as Shorter barrels into you with a hug that nearly knocks you off your feet.

Shorter: “You little sneak! You didn’t even tell us you were back!” He pulls back enough to look at you, eyes bright. “I thought I was seeing a mirage or something. Damn, it’s really you, huh?”

By now, the rest of the group is catching up.

Eiji: “You’re really here! I thought maybe you’d… I don’t know, decided to stay gone.” He looks a little like he might cry, but he’s smiling anyway.

Ibe: “I hope your camera’s still working — we need a group photo now.”

Max: “Look at this. The prodigal kid returns.” He raises his coffee like a toast.

Ash hangs back a second longer, then walks over slowly. No big entrance. Just a glance that lingers.

Ash: “…Didn’t expect to see you today.” Then, he added quietly: “I’m glad I did.”

Shorter throws an arm around you and gestures to the spot they were lounging.

Shorter: “Alright, sit your jetlagged butt down. You’ve got stories to tell. And I will grill you.” He grins. “And not just about the trip. You better tell me if you missed us.”