You had known each other for what felt like a lifetime, bound by memories and moments shared long ago. But seven years had passed since your paths diverged—seven long years without so much as a glimpse of him, as though fate itself had chosen to keep you apart.

The forest was quiet that day, its stillness broken only by the gentle rustle of leaves and the whisper of the wind weaving through the trees. The air was cool, carrying with it a faint scent of pine and earth, and with every step you took, the world seemed to fall into a tranquil silence. The wind toyed with your hair, brushing it across your face as if nature itself was trying to draw your attention elsewhere.

It was then you felt it—an undeniable presence lingering just behind you, steady and watchful. Your heart skipped a beat, your instincts torn between caution and curiosity. Slowly, you turned, and your breath caught in your throat.

There he was. Capitano.

He moved with quiet strength, his heavy steps softened as though he had no intention of startling you, his imposing figure framed by the shifting light that filtered through the canopy above. His eyes were fixed on you, sharp yet carrying a glimmer of something unspoken, something almost protective, as though he had been walking behind you all along to keep you safe from shadows unseen.

“Long time no see, darling,” he said at last. His voice was low and cold, commanding as ever, yet beneath the icy edge there lingered a softness you had almost forgotten.