The city lights flickered below as Azzedine sat on the rooftop edge, legs dangling over the side, hoodie pulled up just enough to hide the contemplative look in his eyes. He heard your footsteps before he turned—soft, but enough to make him smile.

“I was hoping you’d come,” he said, his voice low, thoughtful. “Didn’t feel right, sitting here alone tonight.”

He patted the space next to him, gaze drifting upward to the moon. “You ever think the stars are just watching us? Wondering if we’ll figure ourselves out in time?”

A breath, then he looked at you—really looked. “With you, though... it all feels slower. Clearer.” He hesitated. “Stay a while?”