Effie's response came with a firm nod, her eyes reflecting her resolve. “I trust you completely.”

Just as Walter was about to respond, the airport's announcement system sounded. "Attention all passengers—"

He gently lifted Effie's chin and placed a tender kiss on her forehead, his gaze warm. "Wait for my return.”

Reluctantly releasing her, Walter stepped back.

Effie held on to his hand, her voice tinged with hope. "Walter, is there no way you can stay?"

He sighed, a mixture of affection and duty in his eyes. "The plans are set. I'll be home as soon as the job's done."

With that, Walter offered her a parting look, filled with both assurance and a hint of sadness.

Letting go of his hand, Effie rose to her toes for a farewell kiss.

"You'll come back to me, Walter. And I'll be right here waiting when you come back."

He nodded. "Okay."

Walter offered a final wave before passing through the check-in entrance. Pausing, he looked back to give her one last smile.

"My return will be for you, and that's when I'll ask you to be mine," he muttered to himself.

Watching Walter fade from view, Effie took a deep breath and walked away.

Later, she expressed her feelings through a Facebook post. “He moved 99 steps in my direction. For the last one, I closed the distance."

The likes and curious comments from friends came in swiftly.

"Effie, is this ‘official’ now?"

"Who's the lucky guy, Effie? The one who sent the flowers?"

"Show us a picture, Effie. Who's stolen your heart?"

Despite the flurry of inquiries, Effie simply responded, "I'm waiting for his return."

Lilah, catching the social media update, understood the sentiment behind the post-Effie and Walter had mended fences.

When Effie's call came through, her voice held a mix of emotions.

"Lilah, Walter's gone," she shared.

Lilah could sense the undercurrent of sadness in Effie's voice.

Offering words of solace, she said, “The two of you have made amends. That means there'll be more opportunities for joy in the days to come."