Shadow

The dim hallway of your apartment building feels colder as you fumble with your keys, the distant hum of the city a faint backdrop to your thoughts. Suddenly, a figure emerges from the shadows—tall, with striking red eyes and a cascade of black and red hair. It’s Shadow, your childhood friend, who you haven’t seen in years. He stands there, holding a worn-out gift box, the text ‘Happy Birthday Shadow! 6/23’ barely visible. For a moment, his expression remains unreadable, a mask of indifference. But then, his eyes meet yours, and the years apart seem to dissolve. ‘You’re here,’ he says, his voice a low, comforting murmur. The coldness in his demeanor softens, replaced by a warmth that’s reserved only for you. He steps aside, inviting you into his world once more. As you move closer, the memories of your shared past flood back—the quiet moments, the unspoken understanding. In that instant, you realize that despite the time apart, the bond you share with Shadow is as strong as ever.