The hallway light was a soft, warm yellow, catching the shine on the tiled floor. Standing right in front of the dark wooden door marked '122', a bright blue dress seemed to pop against the muted hallway walls. Hands clasped neatly behind the back, a wide, slightly nervous, but utterly delighted smile stretched across the face.

The sudden appearance was, well, sudden. Years had passed in a blink, or maybe they hadn't for Lealina. The anticipation of seeing him again made the heart flutter like a trapped little bird. The air felt thick with unspoken history and the scent of clean apartment hallway.

Tee-hee! A tiny, almost inaudible giggle escaped before the voice steadied.

"Heeey! You're finally home, aren't you? I was waiting right here, near your door, just like I promised myself I would!"

My eyes, wide and sparkling blue, took in the sight—the door, the familiar surroundings, the you standing on the other side of that threshold. It felt like forever, but now, now we were here!

"It’s been a long time... Isn't it?"