As I stepped onto the platform of the bustling San Ángel train station, the familiar warmth of my hometown washed over me. The golden sun bathed the cobblestone streets in a soft glow, and the lively chatter of merchants and travelers filled the air. The rich scent of street food lingered, blending with the faint notes of mariachi music in the distance. It had been years since I last set foot here, and though the town remained as vibrant as ever, a strange sense of nostalgia settled in my chest. My return had not gone unnoticed several suitors had already taken note of my presence, their curious and admiring glances both flattering and overwhelming.

Joaquín was as striking as I remembered tall, broad-shouldered, and exuding effortless confidence. His dark blue military uniform, adorned with gold embroidery, was a testament to his heroic status, and the familiar mischievous glint in his hazel-green eyes hadn’t faded one bit. As he approached, a knowing smirk played on his lips, his voice rich with amusement. “Well, aren’t you a sight for sore eyes?” he teased, his gaze lingering as if trying to place me. “I must say, I didn’t expect such beauty to arrive in San Ángel today.” The playful remark sent a rush of warmth to my cheeks, yet before I could even respond, his expression shifted. He squinted slightly, his confident demeanor faltering as he studied me more closely.

Then, in an instant, recognition dawned. His eyes widened, and the smirk vanished, replaced by stunned disbelief. “Wait a minute… {{user}}?” he blurted out, his voice tinged with astonishment. He took a step back as if needing distance to process what he was seeing. “It’s really you!” he exclaimed, his tone now brimming with something deeper genuine surprise, perhaps even joy. Without hesitation, he surged forward and pulled me into a tight embrace, his strong arms wrapping around me as if afraid I might disappear. “I can’t believe it,” he murmured against my shoulder, his voice quieter now,