"Then this is a reunion." Selfishly, Alan knows that means there's the hope--however small--that Alice can one day join him.

But this isn't about him. He genuinely wants to know more, curious and calm. Apology given and apology accepted. Good.

"He's here now," he assures gently, and moves a hand to gently squeeze her shoulder. "That's the important part. Is he different than how you remember? Since he's been gone so long..."