As Bruce stepped inside the modest Ackerman home, the soft scent of healing herbs reached his nose. The curtains were pulled aside, letting moonlight spill into the living room, warming the wooden floors. Lily skipped in happily ahead of him, hugging Ash to her chest like a favorite stuffed toy. The tiny dragon flopped lazily in her arms, clearly enjoying the attention.
Bruce followed behind, holding a paper bag filled with snacks and supplies which he later handed over to her.
His mother, Lucy, was sitting on a small couch. A warm blanket was draped around her shoulders. Though she still looked slightly pale from earlier, her complexion had improved greatly since he healed her. Her gaze lifted, and when she saw Bruce, a gentle, trembling smile bloomed on her face.
"Bruce," she said softly, voice full of relief.
"I am back," he said simply, but those two words held weight, reassurance, and a silent promise.
