Two years ago

A hand settles on my shoulder. Startled, I spin around. As my gaze collides with Franco’s, a big smile spreads across my face. A matching grin lights up his.

“Franco!”

“Long time, no see, Valentini!”

Without hesitation, I wrap my arms around his thin, wiry body and squeeze tight. He does the same. It’s been at least a year since we’ve seen each other. Franco and I grew up together, and we’ve been close friends ever ...