Echoes of Reunion

A Familiar Voice

A few days had passed since the battle. The base was still in recovery, and Kai found himself needing a moment alone. He stepped outside, breathing in the crisp night air, trying to clear his mind. His hands were shoved into his pockets as he walked aimlessly, lost in thought.

Then his phone buzzed.

He pulled it out, frowning at the unknown number. Hesitating for a second, he answered.

"Hello?"

A soft chuckle came through the line, sending a shiver down his spine.

"Look behind you…"

Kai's heart skipped a beat. He spun around, eyes scanning the dimly lit area—nothing. His brows furrowed, and he turned back—

Suddenly, a pair of arms wrapped around him in a surprise hug.

A familiar scent washed over him, something sweet yet warm, and before he could react, a voice that once belonged to his past filled his ears.

"It's been a long time since we saw each other, Kai!"

Kai's eyes widened as the figure pulled back. Long brown hair cascaded over her shoulders, her dazzling smile as radiant as ever.

"Nami??" he blurted out, still caught in disbelief. "Since when did you come back from your business trip?"

Nami giggled, her eyes twinkling. "I arrived yesterday but didn't tell you to make it a surprise!"

Kai chuckled, shaking his head. "Sounds like you."

Her expression faltered slightly. "Did you… not like the surprise?"

"No, no, it's not like that!" he reassured her quickly. "I'm just glad you're still the same."

She beamed. "Well, my silliness will never change!"

They both started laughing, the tension melting away as if no time had passed between them.

A Sunset Reunion

Later that day, Nami tugged on Kai's sleeve. "Wanna go to the beach at sunset? Our secret spot?"

Kai smiled. "Yeah, I'm totally free. Let's do it."

When the golden hues of the setting sun painted the sky, they arrived at their secluded cliffside, a place untouched by time and memories. The waves crashed softly below, a rhythmic song of nostalgia.

Kai exhaled as he looked out at the horizon. "This place brings back so many memories."

Nami nodded, a gentle breeze ruffling her hair. "Yeah… remember when you proposed to me here at this exact time?" She grinned mischievously. "Also, you accidentally dropped the ring off the cliff. Just had to put that in."

Kai groaned. "Hey! Forget about that! It was all about the romantic part."

Nami burst into laughter. "I will literally tell it to our future kids as a bedtime story."

Kai shot her a playful glare. "Don't you dare."

They both laughed again, the moment filled with warmth and unspoken emotions. For a brief time, the chaos of war and betrayal felt distant, and all that remained was the echo of their past happiness.

The Drive Back

As they drove back to the base, the conversation took a more serious turn.

"So..." Nami trailed off, looking at Kai from the passenger seat. "A lot has changed, huh?"

Kai gripped the wheel, his expression somber. "Yeah. More than I can put into words. The team has been through hell lately. Betrayals, losses… things are different now."

Nami nodded, folding her arms. "I heard about Lexa. Never thought she'd turn against you guys."

"None of us did," Kai admitted, voice heavy with frustration. "It still doesn't feel real. We trusted her. Fought beside her. And now she's out there, working with them."

Nami reached over, placing a comforting hand on his arm. "I know it hurts, but it's not your fault. You guys are still standing, still fighting. That's what matters."

Kai sighed. "I just don't know what's coming next. And that's what scares me the most."

"Then don't face it alone," she said softly. "You've got people who have your back, and you've got me too."

Kai glanced at her, a grateful smile tugging at his lips. "Thanks, Nami."

She leaned back, flashing him a wink. "Now, hurry up. I wanna see the others."

A Warm Welcome

As they pulled into the base, Nami practically bounced out of the car before Kai could even turn off the engine.

"Alright, where is everyone?" she called out.

The moment she stepped inside, familiar faces turned in surprise.

"Nami?!" Yano was the first to react, rushing over to hug her. "Oh my god, when did you get back?!"

"Yesterday!" Nami grinned, hugging back. "But I wanted to surprise Kai first."

Leon walked over, arms crossed but a small smirk on his face. "Well, well. Look who finally decided to show up."

"Did you miss me, Leon? Be honest," Nami teased.

Leon scoffed. "Not even a little."

Kai rolled his eyes. "Don't lie."

Crimson stepped forward, nudging Kai with his elbow. "It's time to shine, my man."

Kai shot him a glare while Nami burst into laughter. "You guys never change, do you?"

"Nope," Crimson said proudly. "And we don't plan to."

The rest of the team gathered around, filling the room with chatter and laughter. Nami's presence was a reminder of what they were fighting for—friendship, love, and the hope that no matter how dark things got, they still had each other.

For that night, at least, they let themselves forget about the war.