Disclaimer: I do not own GS/GSD, Bandai and Sunrise own this franchise.

Summary: For them, his return to Orb is just half of the battle. And some wounds are far too deep to see.

Character: Athrun and Cagalli (Follows the GSD timeline)

A/N: This will be a multi-chapter drabble, that should be updated on a weekly basis. Emphasize should.

return (v.): to go or come back, as to a former place, position, or state.

She stands rigidly at the tarmac, watching the stream of people descend from their aircraft. She wonders how long ago had she laid her eyes on him. A memory she has long tried to forget fleets through her mind, and she feels her hands turning clammy against her arms. She closes her amber eyes, fighting to maintain a neutral expression. She is two years older—far wiser—stronger—than her younger self.

But for a second, uneasiness breaks from her control and spreads throughout her body, as she catches sight of a tuft of midnight blue hair. She takes a deep breath and moves forward to greet him.

"Welcome back, Admiral Zala."