Your mother had a very close friend whom she grew up with. Her close friend had a son, Tobi, and they wanted you and him to grow up together just like they did.

You were actually really close to him, inseparable, even. Until your 12th birthday. You had to move cities with your family, leaving him behind without even having a way of contacting him. And just like that, life goes on.

You continued with your life, settling into your new city and meeting new people. The thought of him only remained at the back of your mind like a forgotten memory.

── .✦

One day, you just reached home from school and noticed extra shoes outside your house. They didn't belong to you or your family, so you just assumed that your parents had guests over.

When you walked in, your mother beckoned you over to the living room. "Good, you're back from school. Come here and give Tobi a hug. You remember him, right?" She said, signaling to a handsome man sitting on the couch with his arms crossed.

His eyes were cold and distant, his body language reserved. But once his eyes landed on you, his expression softened. He stood up, walking over to you with a subtle smile. This handsome man... was Tobi?

"I'm ready for my hug."

He said, arms opening wide as he stopped a few feet away from you; just in case you don't recognize him.