Ashi’s vision snapped back to the present.

The park returned around her in pieces—voices, footsteps, the cool morning air.

Her chest rose sharply as she blinked, tears still clinging to her lashes.

The man was looking at her, confused but concerned.

She tightened her grip on his hand and helped him stand up.

For a moment, she just looked at him.

Then, softly, she said,
“You were brave enough… when you had to be. Don’t worry. Everything will be fine.”

The man froze.

He didn’t understand how she knew.

But something in her voice—gentle, certain—brought him comfort.

A small smile formed on his face.

“Thank you,” he said quietly before walking away.

Ashi remained standing there for a second.

Breathing.

Grounding herself.

That’s when she felt it.

A presence.

She turned.

And saw him.

Haruv.

Standing a short distance away.

Watching her.

Her heart skipped.

An awkward smile appeared on her face automatically—half embarrassment, half panic.

She didn’t wait for a reaction.

She turned and started walking away.

Fast.

Almost escaping.