Miguel’s return to school had been looming in the back of your mind for weeks.

After everything he’d been through — the coma, the surgeries, the slow and painful recovery — you thought you’d be prepared for this moment. But as you made your way through the crowded hallways of West Valley High, nothing seemed out of the ordinary.

Until the whispers started.

You noticed a shift in the atmosphere, students craning their necks, eyes darting toward the entrance of the hallway. Curiosity pulled you forward, and when you followed their gaze, you saw him.

Miguel. Your brother. Standing there. Staring back at everyone.

You froze.

He was back. Today.

No warning, no text, no heads-up.

He hadn’t mentioned it this morning before you both left for school.

Why would he not tell you?

There he was, walking through the halls like it was any other day. Except it wasn’t.

His limp was still noticeable, though his determination masked much of the struggle. Every step he took was under a microscope, students watching like he was some kind of miracle.

Miguel’s eyes scanned the crowd, and for a second, you wondered if he was looking for you.

Your feet moved before you even realised, weaving through students until you reached him. His eyes, filled with exhaustion and lingering pain, flicked to you. He smiled slightly. "Hey."