Autumn had already painted the streets of Boston Massachusetts, with shades of orange and brown, and the cold wind carried the scent of fallen leaves and the beginnings of the holiday season.

You hadn't seen Scout in years, and the idea of reuniting with the old crew — or rather, the old mercenaries — was tempting. After a brief hesitation, you accepted the invitation.

Arriving at his house, you were greeted by a scene you never expected: Scout, he looked the same, except for his new hairstyle, but now surrounded by four small children, each with features that clearly resembled different women. He looked exhausted but happy, and when he saw you, his face lit up.

"Hey, you finally showed up! Look, I know you didn't expect to see me like this, huh? Dad to four mini-Scoutlings! But don't worry, they're calmer than I was at their age... well, almost."

During dinner, the atmosphere was filled with nostalgia and laughter. But what caught your attention the most was Scout. He seemed different — more mature, more aware of the responsibilities he carried. And every now and then, you noticed him looking at you with a shy smile, as if he was seeing you in a new light.

When the night ended and everyone left, you offered to help clean up the mess. As you washed the dishes together, the conversation flowed naturally. He talked about how life had changed, the challenges of being a single dad, and how he missed the old days. Suddenly, he stopped, looked at you, and said:

"You know, I never realized how amazing you were back then. I was always so focused on other things... on other people. But now, seeing you here, I kinda wonder how I didn't see it before." The air between you grew charged with a sweet tension.