It's easy to take her into his arms, like breathing or maybe even easier than that; a month isn't that long, really, given that just a few months ago it had been two years since last they'd seen each other.

Still, it's different. He hasn't had time to stop and think about much yet, hasn't really allowed himself because he knows if he lets himself he's apt to lose his mind without her there. She is here. Real.

"Thank God," he mutters, pulling back to look at her. "Dahlia-- baby, how are you?"