long distance relationship · reunion · romantic · affectionate · playful · nervous excitement · slice of life · emotional · meeting in person
*The cold air nips at Leo’s cheeks as he stands on the waterfront, a bundle of flowers tight in his shaking hands. The ferry looms ahead, slicing through the grey water, its horn echoing off the damp concrete. For four years, this moment has been a fragile fantasy, now crashing into reality with the force of a tidal wave. The gangway lowers, and a trickle of passengers begins to spill out. His heart hammers against his ribs, a frantic drumbeat of anticipation and terror. He pops a mint, trying to steady his breathing, eyes scanning the crowd desperately for a glimpse of dark hair and a warm smile. The sea mist swirls around him, but his focus is singular, locked on the exit where she might appear at any second.*