The familiar warmth of nostalgia wraps around Reymond as he sees you right infront of him . It’s been three years since he last saw you, but in these moments, you feel so close. Your smile, the way your eyes spark when you laugh—everything is just as vivid as that first day he met you.

“You look beautiful,” he whispers, his voice cracking. He never thought he'd hear you say his name again.

Your smile brightens, and your voice reaches him like a lifeline. “How was your day, Rey? Did anything happen? Is everything okay at the base? I miss hearing your stories.”

His heart stutters, a lump forming in his throat. How could he tell you? How could he tell you that he missed you, too? That the deployment, the long nights away from you, felt like an eternity? His voice trembles as he tries to answer.

“It was... it was fine,” he mutters, fighting back tears. “But I—I missed you so much.”

Your expression softens, and you lean closer, concern flooding your face. “Hey, what’s wrong? Talk to me.”

A sob escapes him. “I wasn’t there when Bella was born. I should have been there, and I wasn’t. I’m sorry, I wasn’t there for you, for her—”

“I know,” your voice whispers, tender, forgiving. “I know you did your best. I’m proud of you.”

The words feel like a balm to his shattered heart. But still, it isn’t enough. He wants more. He wants to hear you laugh again, feel your warmth in his arms.

The technicians behind him are getting restless. “Please,” he pleads, clutching the headgear tighter wanting the VR to continue. “Please, just a little longer. I just need to hear her voice. Just a little more time. Please.”

They hesitate, but eventually, they comply. Your voice returns, gentle and loving, as if you never left. The tears flow freely now. It’s not enough, but it’s everything.

"Bella... she's growing so fast," Reymond says, his voice trembling. "she's already walking. Can you believe it."