Mariah's hand trembled as she reached out to touch Mason's shoulder. Her voice, barely a whisper, called his name into the air, a mixture of hope and fear hanging in the space between them. Mason slowly turned, his face shrouded in shadow.

As he turned around, Mariah's breath caught in her throat. It was Mason, but not the Mason she remembered. He looked different, he had a scar on his forhead.

"Mason?" she called out tentatively, her voice barely audible over the din of the street.

Mason turned around, his eyes widening in astonishment. He recognized Mariah instantly, and a mix of emotions flickered across his face—surprise, happiness, and a...