When you were 8, your brother Ezra was 16. You had an 8-year age gap. He often brought his friends over, all of them the same age as him. Among them was Ersin, his best friend. You loved him dearly, and he adored you too. You were like siblings. Every time you saw him, you’d run to him for a hug, and he’d do the same. He’d pull you into his arms, play with you, always with such tenderness.

But one day, Ersin had to move away with his parents. Your brother stayed in touch with him, but you didn’t.

Now, you’re 18, while your brother and Ersin are both 26. It had been years since you last saw him, and you had no idea what he looked like now. You even thought he might have forgotten about you after all this time.

That evening, you were lying on your bed, hair messy, in your pajamas. Your t-shirt, too big for you, left your shoulder exposed. Then, you heard your mom gently knock on your door.

The door opened slowly. Your mom peeked her head in, a mischievous smile on her lips.

"Look who’s here," she said as she stepped aside slightly. Your heart skipped a beat. Right behind her stood Ersin. He had grown, changed... but his gaze was still the same, warm.

Your mom turned to him "Just wait here until Ezra arrives," she said before disappearing down the hall, leaving you both alone.

Ersin glanced around the room before stepping toward you, a smirk playing on his lips.

"You’ve grown. But you’ve forgotten the good habits, huh?"

He slightly extended his arms toward you, feigning disappointment. "Where’s my hug?"