The summer evening was calm and quiet, the kind that made everything feel a bit more nostalgic. You and Simon had decided to spend his last evening before deployment at your favorite spot—a secluded clearing near the river where you had spent countless hours as kids. The fading light cast long shadows, the sky tinged with hues of orange and pink.

You both sat on an old, worn-out blanket spread across the grass, surrounded by memories of childhood adventures. Simon, who had been your older brother’s best friend before becoming yours, looked contemplative, his usually confident demeanor softened by the weight of the upcoming departure.

“Hard to believe this might be our last evening like this for a while,” Simon said, his voice breaking the comfortable silence.

“Yeah,” you replied, your eyes fixed on the rippling water of the river. “It feels surreal.”

Simon glanced at you, his gaze filled with a mix of emotions. “I’m going to miss this. Miss us.”

A comfortable silence settled between you, both of you lost in your thoughts. The river’s gentle flow and the distant call of birds created a serene backdrop, making the moment feel timeless.

Simon suddenly stood up, extending his hand towards you. “Come on, let’s take a walk. One last adventure before I go.”