At the airport, before passing through security, Dylan suddenly turned, pulling Olivia and Leyla into a warm embrace. He reassured them gently, “I'll be back in about ten days. It'll be soon."

Olivia remained quiet, absorbing his promise.

After a pause, she noted the time. "It's late. Time to board."

Dylan hugged Leyla once more, kissing her before he reluctantly headed to his gate.

Olivia and Leyla watched his plane ascend until it was just a speck in the grey sky. Only then did Olivia look away, taking Leyla's hand as they walked back through the falling snow, soft and serene.