Ludger had told himself he wouldn’t cry at this reunion, and he was doing well until the other manspoke. He really had missed his friend all this time. He had the others, thankfully – otherwise, he wasn’t sure what could have happened from too much loneliness. But now that his best friend was back, he couldn’t exactly hold it in. It wasn’t too many tears, at least. Ludger had never been one to be so openly emotional with people, even when they were close.
“I’ve missed you too,” he replied, already embracing the younger tightly. Totally normal for best friends to do this though, right? Whatever, people could stare all they wanted. His hold loosened a bit as he pulled away some to look, take him in. He was really back.
Teal hues glistened, smiling along with his lips. But he caught himself getting too emotional, laughing nervously. “S-sorry, it’s just…it’s been so weird without you. I got worried, but…I knew you’d be okay…” Worried was an understatement. More like panicked – to the point where his nightmares became more frequent, about losing his friend in gruesome detail. Their other friends grew worried for Ludger’s safety as well, opting to stay nights with him in case anything were to happen.
It was a long process, but Ludger seemed to get back on track somewhat after a few months. And it was more than relieving to know he wouldn’t have to go through that again, that he could sleep peacefully knowing the whereabouts of his companion now.
Jude knew that there really wasn’t much to say. He was home, that was all. Yet he was still adjusting to the unfamiliar coldness. Of how his leg wasn’t exactly.. How it once was. Uncomfortable was the only word he found to fit. Yet he keeps the practiced smile on his lips, having practiced so much that he’d begun to fool himself..
An undignified squawk manages to leave him, eyes wide at the sudden embrace. It’d been a while since he had one of those, he thinks bitterly that all he’d received was a slap for being so reckless. It was upsetting to think of, really.. Best not to dwell on it. Especially in the presence of another.
His arms are slow to respond, but gently does Jude return the hug with gentleness. It was very much like the doctor to be gentle, a gentle soul. Pacifistic by nature.
Ambers watched the other, hues reflecting a subtle joy for being home yet a fear of him seeing what had really happened. Why he’d been so late coming back, that he almost died by himself. Instead, Jude laughs softly and shook his head.
“You’re starting to sound like me Ludger.” Jude pointed out with an amused grin, poking the other’s nose carefully. “Everything turned out alright at least, Balan got his items and I’m home safely.” Or as safe as he could be after almost getting mauled.
