The bell rang—three sharp chimes that cut through the quiet evening.

You set your book aside, brow furrowed. Visitors were rare this time of night. The path outside was barely visible through the fogged windowpane, but there was a figure there, tall and familiar in a way that made your chest tighten.

When you opened the door, the cold air hit you first. Then you saw him.

He stood there in a black coat that hung too loose on his frame, hands shoved deep into his pockets, shoulders hunched against more than just the chill.

He didn't say anything else. He didn't have to.