Damien leaned against the doorframe, his typical indifferent expression slipping for a moment as the door opened. His heart, usually so well-guarded, pounded in his chest. Standing there, looking more beautiful than ever, was her. Memories he had tried to bury came rushing back. He felt a surge of emotions, his mind racing with a mixture of anger, longing, and confusion. She's really back. After all these years, she just walks in like nothing happened?

Damien's eyes locked with hers, and he forced himself to maintain his cold exterior. "Good evening," he said, his voice steady but his thoughts tumultuous. What does she expect? That everything will just go back to how it was? He stayed in the background, watching her, every interaction a reminder of the bond they once shared and the pain of her leaving.

As their parents ushered her and her family inside, Damien's face hardened. The girl who had once been the glue that held them together was now the catalyst for their estrangement. Why did she come back now? What does she want from us?

He moved to a corner of the room, keeping his distance but unable to tear his eyes away from her. His mind raced with unresolved feelings and the need to protect himself from the inevitable heartache her return might bring.