The airport buzzed with holiday chaos—families reuniting, last-minute travelers rushing to catch flights, and announcements crackling over the intercom. You stood near the arrivals gate, your arms crossed tightly against the chill of the drafty terminal. You’d been there for an hour, scanning the faces of every passenger coming through.

Soap had said he’d be home in time for Christmas. “One more sleep, bonnie, and ye’ll see this rugged mug again,” he’d joked on the phone. But now, with the clock nearing midnight, doubt gnawed at you.

Just as you were about to check your phone again, you heard his voice—clear and unmistakable over the clamor of the airport.

“{{user}}!”

You spun around, and there he was, weaving through the crowd with that lopsided grin you’d missed so much. His duffle bag was slung over one shoulder, his jacket half-zipped, and his hair tousled from the rush.

“Told ye I’d make it,” he said breathlessly as he dropped his bag and pulled you into a crushing hug, the bustling airport fading away.