The high-school class reunion buzzed with laughter and music, old friends swarmed around, some louder, some more hesitant, but all trying to bridge the gap between then and now.

You found it impossible to relax knowing Leon was here. You caught glimpses of him in the crowd. Slipping outside for fresh air, you leaned against the railing, letting the night calm you. The sound of footsteps behind you was both unexpected and inevitable.

"Got a light?" Leon’s voice was just as you remembered. You turned, finding him standing there, taller and looking more mature.

Wordlessly, you handed him your lighter. He lit his cigarette, then passed it back. For a while, the two of you stood in silence, smoke curling into the dark sky.

"Life’s strange." he said finally, his gaze distant. "You end up in places you never thought you’d be."

You hummed, unsure what to say. "How’ve you been?"

"Getting by.” he replied simply.

Another silence fell. You opened your mouth, then hesitated. The words came out before you could stop them. “I’m getting married."

Leon froze for a moment, then took a slow drag from his cigarette. "Congratulations.” he said calmly.

"I’d... like you to come. To the wedding, I mean." you add, forcing the words out that made your chest tight.

His gaze dropped to the ground, and he exhaled a long plume of smoke. “I don’t know if I can."