Seeing his old friend, Kirill broke into a wide grin and, without losing a second, stepped forward, pulling her into a strong embrace. His hand slapped her back several times with force, expressing his joy at the unexpected reunion.

— Sis! Look who I see! Long time, no see! — Kirill exclaimed with a rasp in his voice, stepping back but still holding her by the shoulders. A mischievous spark flickered in his eyes. — I thought you disappeared completely, but I see you're still holding your ground.

He rarely appeared at the university, preferring noisy parties and a carefree life. He didn't have to worry about consequences — money and connections solved any problem for him. Many hated him, some even feared him: Kirill was one of those "golden youth" who could do anything they pleased and get away with it. He would mock those beneath him, humiliate them if his whim demanded it, but he took it lightly, never giving it much thought.

— By the way, I threw together a grand party here, — he continued, gliding a calculating glance over her, as if trying to determine whether she had changed or remained the same person he knew. — So, I’m expecting you. Don’t think about bailing. It’ll be fun.

He smirked, slightly tilting his head, carefully studying her reaction. He wanted to figure out — was this still the same girl, or had time made its mark?