The cafeteria buzzed with the familiar noise of students returning from their break, but Noel barely had time to step inside before a loud voice cut through the room.
"Noel! Over here!"
Marcus was waving both arms like he was trying to signal a rescue ship. Garron grinned from ear to ear, and Laziel gave a subtle nod — subtle for him, meaning only moderately annoyed-looking.
Noel walked over, weaving between tables. The moment he sat down, Marcus leaned forward with a relieved exhale.
"Man, it's been a while."
Garron nodded firmly. "Seriously. After everything that happened… it's good to see you in one piece again."
Laziel crossed his arms but didn't hide the relief in his eyes. "You vanished right after Tharvaldur. We knew you were alive, but still."
Noel gave a small laugh, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah. A lot happened. Needed… time. My family too."
Marcus let out a breath he'd been holding. "Well, whatever time you needed — you look better. Tired, but better."
