Amihan arrived at the community center looking like she might bolt at any moment.
Glad understood. Meeting your child's partner after 400 years of absence? Terrifying.
"Hi," Glad said gently. "I'm Glad. The one who went viral, apparently."
Amihan laughed—a surprised, genuine sound. "I've seen your videos. You're terrible with technology."
"Everyone says that."
"It's endearing."
They sat in Anino Garden, the statue watching over them.
"I'm sorry I wasn't there for Ariel," Amihan began. "For centuries, I—"
"Stop." Glad held up a hand. "Whatever happened, it wasn't your fault. Ariel told me the story. You were a victim, not a villain."
"But I should have found him sooner. Should have—"
"You're here now. That's what matters." Glad smiled. "I spent 173 years alone. I know what it's like to miss family. But I also know that when family appears, you hold on tight and never let go."
Amihan's eyes filled with tears. "You're good for him."
"He's good for me."
They talked for hours—about Ariel's childhood, Amihan's imprisonment, the centuries of separation. By the end, they were holding hands, bonded by their love for the same creature.
When Ariel found them, laughing together, he felt something he hadn't felt in centuries.
Complete.