The sky was a deeper, more vivid blue than usual, stretching out like a vast sapphire blanket above. Beneath this expansive azure, the Black Forest stood in serene repose, its usual whispers of mystery now hushed in a rare moment of peace.
It was finally time. Zeke could feel it.
As he entered the house, he found Alicia and Azy together in the living room. Alicia, seated on the couch, was gently holding Azy's hands, speaking softly to him while he nodded in solemn understanding.
The sight of them made Zeke pause. A lump formed in his throat. Hiding behind the door, he pressed his back against the cool wall. He then dragged his palms across his face, weaving them through his hair. After a deep, steadying breath, Zeke's eyes regained their usual calm. Ready, he moved into the room towards his wife and son.
At the sight of him, both mother and son turned. Azy's face lit up. "Dad! You're back."
