Jasper visited often. He always had. But now, Elias saw him through Luna's memories—through her soft affection for him.
Jasper fixed cabinets and replaced light bulbs without being asked. He tried to hide when he was worried. He smiled too wide when embarrassed.
One afternoon, while unpacking groceries onto the counter, Jasper glanced at him.
"You seem lighter lately," he said. "It looks good on you."
Elias blinked. Because the smile he felt on his face wasn't practiced. It simply was.
"I think," Elias said slowly, "I'm learning how to live."
Jasper didn't push. Just nodded. Gentle. Familiar.