Oh Sandman...Brought Me A Dream.

Adeline frowned, eyes narrowing in confusion. "What are you doing here?!" Her voice carried both concern and sharp authority as she stepped closer, keeping her body angled toward the man beside them. He made no move, only watching her with unreadable eyes before, at last, he sheathed his blade.

She crouched, lowering herself to meet El Ritch's gaze. Dirt clung stubbornly to his face, and without thinking, she wiped it away with careful fingers.

El Ritch let out a soft chuckle. "It's a very long story," he murmured, and before she could respond, he threw his arms around her, gripping her tightly.

"I have…" His voice wavered. "I have really missed you, Doctor Adeline…"

His hold on her loosened, but before he could fully pull away, Ad wrapped her arms around him in return, a firm, steadying presence. Her hand ran gently across his back.

Then she saw his eyes.

Dull. Hollow.