Chapter: 2253

Averie, standing just outside, clutched a bunch of flowers and gazed at Sebastian. It had been two years, a span of time that felt both endless and fleeting. Averie had slowly lost the clear memory of her father's face, making this reunion feel strangely distant.

Sebastian was dressed in the same grey checkered shirt, black sweatpants, and worn, yellowed sneakers he had been wearing when he was first detained. Time, however, had not been kind to him. Although still clad in his clothes from two years ago, Sebastian looked noticeably older. Although he was only in his thirties, the tough prison life had etched some grey hairs at his temples, and with his head now shaved, his eyes appeared clouded and distant.

“Live well once you're out," a guard advised.

Sebastian, clutching a bag and curbing his anger, replied respectfully, “I understand, sir."

After issuing the routine instructions, the guards turned and walked away, closing the door behind Sebastian.