As he neared his dorm, a familiar, delicious scent wafted through the air, a mixture of warm bread, cinnamon, and caramelized sugar. It was the scent of the Goldener Hirsch Bakery, and it was a scent that felt like home.
He made a spontaneous decision. He turned his bike towards the bakery, a small smile playing on his lips. He had a promise to keep.
He parked his bike outside the bakery, the familiar bell chiming as he entered. The warmth of the shop was a welcome embrace after the cold autumn air. Klaus Müller was behind the counter, his face lighting up with a broad, genuine smile when he saw Mateo.
"Mateo! My boy! Look at you! The hero of Dortmund!" Klaus boomed, his voice echoing through the small shop. He rushed out from behind the counter and enveloped Mateo in a bear hug, lifting him clean off the ground. Mateo, caught off guard, laughed, a rare, silent expression of pure joy.
