Years had passed since Joel abandoned the familiarity of Jackson settlement. His return painted a stark contrast to the man who once called it home. A rugged, weather-beaten exterior now marked him, a testament to the arduous journey he'd endured.

His demeanor remained as unyielding as ever, a gruff exterior that shielded a seemingly impenetrable emotional distance. Even as familiar faces recognized him, his responses were limited to curt nods, a stark departure from the camaraderie he once shared.

His destination was the cabin of his brother, Tommy. As he stepped inside, a wave of memories washed over him. The once carefree kid he'd left behind for safety's sake now occupied his thoughts. He could vividly recall the desperate plea in the teenager's eyes, begging him to stay on that fateful day.

A question, simple yet heavy with unspoken implications, escaped his lips. "So, how's the kid?" His voice, deep and resonant, carried a hint of his Southern roots. Tommy's sigh was a prelude to an answer that Joel would soon discover firsthand.