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Alexa didn't hesitate to run into them, embracing him tightly as she buried her face in his shoulder. Nolan's arms wrapped around her just as tightly, holding her close as they both cried.

It felt like they stayed that way for an eternity, just holding each other and letting out all the emotions they had been bottling up for so long. When they finally pulled away, Alexa looked up at Nolan, still unable to believe he was really there.

Without a word, Nolan leaned down and pressed his lips to hers, the kiss filled with all the love and longing they had been keeping hidden for so long. Alexa's arms wrapped around his neck as she kissed him back, tears still streaming down her face.

As they finally pulled away, Nolan took her hand and led her to a nearby bench. They sat down together, still holding hands as they looked into each other's eyes. Nolan took a deep breath before speaking.

"I'm so sorry, Alexa," he said, his voice filled with regret. "I should have never left like that, I shoul