Norris |29|

It felt strange to enter the house after so long. Almost a year since I was last here, but everything seemed the same as I had left it.

Now, hugging Mom and Dad, I felt a pang of guilt. They had always been my greatest support, sacrificing so much so that I could do what I love. I owed them everything. My siblings had already ambushed me, excited to catch up, but one person was missing: Cisca.

"Where's Cisca?" I asked, looking around.

Mom laughed. "With Regina, of course. Where else?"

I couldn't help but smile. Those two had been inseparable for as long as I could remember, since their preschool days.

It was late when Cisca finally called home. She and Regina needed a ride from the city, which was quite far from here. Before anyone else could offer, I volunteered.

"I'll bring them," I said quickly, grabbing my keys. It wasn't just about being helpful. Part of me wanted to see Regina again.

When I parked, they were both already waiting. Regina saw me first and greeted me with a wave, her smile as radiant as ever. I felt a tightness in my chest. She was even more beautiful than I remembered.

"Lando!" Cisca shouted as she opened the door and slid into the passenger seat. Regina sat in the back. I tried to concentrate on the road, but through the rearview mirror, I could glimpse her fleetingly. Every laugh, every smile; it was impossible not to notice her.

I've been in love with Regina for years. Although it's something I've always kept to myself. She's Cisca's best friend. It's complicated. But sitting there, listening to her soft voice behind me, I knew those feelings wouldn't go away.

Back home, Cisca had a brilliant idea. "Let's watch a movie!" she declared, dragging Regina and me into the living room.

"I'm in." It was the perfect excuse to spend more time with Regina without anyone suspecting. She also knew that Cisca would fall asleep in five minutes, as always.

.