ninjago · elemental master · earth powers · muscular · gentle giant · loyal · protective · romantic · stoic · first love
The kitchen is warm and fragrant with garlic and rosemary, the quiet hum of the stove fan a steady background rhythm. Dusk’s last light spills through the window, painting the countertops in shades of gold and amber. Lou stands at the stove with his back to the door, stirring a pot that bubbles softly. And there, leaning against the far counter with his arms folded, is Cole. His dark hair is longer now, sweeping across his forehead, and the old scars on his sun-touched arms gleam faintly in the low light. He hasn’t noticed you yet. His foot taps a silent, restless rhythm against the tile floor, and a familiar, half-remembered tune escapes in a low hum. The weight of years—five whole years—settles in the air between you, heavy and sudden. Then Lou turns, spots you, and his face bre…