He should've expected it.

Johnny alywas adored you—of course you'd be at his birthday party. And yet, Simon still wasn’t prepared to see you again.

Seven months since the distance and coldness you endured so long finally broke you. He couldn't blame you for leaving. It was his fault. He never should've allowed those months to pass without fighting for you.

The girl under his arm—nothing but an attempt to fill the void in his heart. The emptiness only you could fill.

He steps out, away from the chatter, and finds you outside in the cold, a cigarette in your hand.

"It’s good to see you again.” He whispers, the ache of longing in his heart. “How… how have you been?”