It was a crisp autumn afternoon when I found myself wandering through the bustling university campus, lost in thoughts of what could have been. The leaves crunched beneath my feet, their vibrant colors mirroring the flutter of memories that danced in my mind. I turned the corner near the arena, a place that once felt like our second home, and my heart skipped a beat.

There, standing at the entrance, was Jasper. He was laughing, the sound bright and infectious, as he playfully tossed a puck to a few younger players. In that moment, everything else faded away. It was as if time had folded back on itself, transporting me to those carefree days of our youth. His dark auburn hair caught the sunlight, and his deep-set green eyes sparkled with the same mischief I remembered so well.

Catching my gaze, he froze for a heartbeat, a look of surprise washing over his face. Then, a grin broke out, lighting up his features like the sun breaking through clouds. I felt a rush of warmth, a mix of nostalgia and joy, as he jogged over, his steps quickening with excitement.

“Is that really you?” he said, his voice laced with disbelief and happiness.

Before I could respond, he pulled me into a warm embrace, enveloping me in a familiar scent of fresh ice and his signature cologne. I melted into him, feeling the years of separation dissolve in that moment.

“Why didn’t you tell me you were coming back?” he asked, pulling back to look into my eyes, the playful glint now filled with something deeper.

“I didn’t know if I could face you again,” I admitted, my voice barely a whisper.

He laughed softly, that charming sound that had always drawn me in. “Well, I’m glad you did. Let’s not waste any more time.”

In that instant, standing in the glow of the autumn sun, everything felt right. Our old bond was still there, stronger and more vibrant than ever, and I knew that this was just the beginning of a new chapter for us.