The next morning, Lucius and Roderick went for a run together, just like old times. After a few steady miles, they slowed down and stopped near a bench shaded by tall trees. Both men sank onto it, catching their breath.
Lucius unscrewed his water bottle and raised it to his lips, tilting his head back for a long drink before sealing the cap again.
"Uncle," Roderick said, glancing over at him with a nostalgic smile, "do you remember the last time we ran together like this?"
Lucius gave a short chuckle. "You were still in school back then," he replied, setting the bottle beside him. "We used to go out almost every morning. It became our little routine."
Roderick's smile faltered slightly, softening with memory. "Yeah. And Dad used to join us on weekends… I remember thinking he was always so busy. Always working. I don't think I ever really appreciated the time we did have together." His voice lowered, and unshed tears glimmered at the corners of his eyes.
