The morning sun barely peeked through the curtains when Mahiru finished stuffing the last of her belongings into her suitcase. Her heart raced with anticipation—today, she was finally going back.
Her parents were surprised when she told them about her decision the night before.
"You're leaving early?" her mom had asked with a knowing smile.
"Yeah…" Mahiru had muttered, feeling shy. "I just… I don't see a reason to stay longer."
Her father had sighed but didn't argue. "Figures. That boy stole you from us already."
"Dad!"
Her mother only giggled. "We understand, sweetheart. Just take care of yourself, okay?"
And so, with their blessings, Mahiru stood at the train station, ready to return to the place where she truly felt at home.
To him.
--
Sam had no idea exactly when Mahiru would arrive. She had purposely avoided telling him the exact time, wanting to surprise him.
"Guess who's coming back todaaay~?" she had teased over text that morning.
"Wait, TODAY?!"
"Maaaaybe."
"Mahiru, I swear, if you don't tell me what time—"
She had left him on read after that, giggling to herself.
Now, as the train pulled into the station, her heart pounded.
Would he be waiting? Would she spot him first?
She stepped off the train, scanning the platform.
And then—
There.
Sam stood near the entrance, hands stuffed in his pockets, shifting restlessly on his feet. His eyes darted through the crowd, looking for her.
Mahiru smiled.
Silently, she walked toward him, weaving through the people until she was close enough to reach out.
Then, she tapped his shoulder.
"Looking for someone?"
Sam spun around, eyes widening the moment he saw her.
"Mahiru—!"
Before she could say anything else, he pulled her into a tight hug.
"You really came back today," he murmured, voice filled with relief.
Mahiru melted into his embrace, inhaling his familiar scent.
"I told you I would."
He pulled back just enough to look at her. "You could've at least told me what time so I could pick you up properly."
Mahiru giggled. "And ruin the surprise? No way."
Sam sighed, shaking his head—but the smile tugging at his lips betrayed how happy he was.
"Welcome home, Mahiru."
Mahiru felt her cheeks warm.
"I'm home."
And with that, she knew—she was exactly where she belonged.
----