Percy stood on the edge of the city, his heart racing as he prepared himself for what he was about to do. The memories had finally hit him in a rush—the goodbye he’d never said, the family he’d left behind. A pang of guilt sat heavily in his chest as he stepped toward the apartment he hadn’t seen in so long.

As he opened the door, memories flooded back—of late-night talks, of laughter, of warmth. He took a deep breath, letting the familiar scent of home settle his nerves.

“Percy?” His mom’s voice was gentle, filled with both surprise and warmth. Sally Jackson appeared in the hallway, her face lighting up at the sight of him. “Oh, Percy.”

“Mom.” His voice was rough, a mix of guilt and relief all tangled together.

Sally rushed forward and wrapped him in a tight hug, holding on as if afraid he might disappear. “I thought… I wasn’t sure I’d ever see you again.”

Percy pulled back slightly, taking in the sight of her. She looked as he remembered but softer, with a glow that felt new and comforting. And in her arms was a small, curly-haired girl with big, inquisitive eyes.

“Percy, this is Estelle,” Sally said with a warm smile, shifting so the little girl could get a better look at him. “She’s been waiting to meet her big brother.”

Estelle looked up at him, wide-eyed and curious. Percy knelt down to her level, giving her a gentle smile. “Hey, Estelle. I’m Percy.”

She reached out a tiny hand, clutching his finger in her own, and giggled. “Percy!” she repeated with a delighted laugh.

He grinned, feeling the guilt ebb away a little as he took in the sight of his little sister. She was perfect, with Sally’s kindness and a spark of mischief in her eyes that reminded him of his own childhood.

Sally watched them, a soft smile on her lips, and then gestured toward the living room. “Come in. There’s so much we need to catch up on.”

As they sat together, Percy told his mom stories, carefully glossing over the more dangerous details. He watched as Estelle listened intently, her eyes wide with wonder at the tales he wove, the weight of his journey somehow lighter in her innocent gaze.

He didn’t need to say it aloud, but as he looked at his mom, he felt the silent promise in his heart—to be there for her, for Estelle, and for whatever came next.