A Decade Apart

Ryan stood in front of his office building, staring out at the city skyline. He had spent the last decade building a successful career, but something was missing. He couldn't shake the feeling that he had left a part of himself behind, back in the small town where he grew up.

As he gazed out at the towering skyscrapers, Ryan's mind began to wander back to his childhood. He thought about the countless hours he had spent exploring the woods, playing in the creek, and riding his bike through the streets of his hometown. He remembered the sense of freedom and adventure that had defined his youth.

But most of all, Ryan thought about Emily. She had been his best friend, his confidante, and his partner in crime. They had shared every secret, every dream, and every fear with each other. Ryan had often wondered what had become of Emily, and whether she ever thought about him.

As he stood there, lost in thought, Ryan's phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out and saw a text from his sister, inviting him to their high school reunion. Ryan's heart skipped a beat as he read the message. He had been dreading this reunion for months, but now he felt a sudden surge of excitement.

Maybe, just maybe, Emily would be there.

Ryan's mind began to racing with possibilities. What would Emily be like now? Would she still have that sparkling smile and those piercing green eyes? Would she still laugh at his jokes and share his love of adventure?

As he stood there, lost in thought, Ryan knew that he had to go to the reunion. He had to see Emily again, to reconnect with his past and rediscover the sense of purpose that had been missing from his life.

With a newfound sense of determination, Ryan typed out a response to his sister's text. "I'm in," he wrote. "Can't wait to see everyone."

As he hit send, Ryan felt a sense of excitement and trepidation. What would the reunion bring? Would he reconnect with Emily, or would he be disappointed?

Only time would tell.