Chapter 28....

Alex's mind was racing, but he tried to focus on the moment. "Jake, I've missed you so much," he said, his voice cracking.

Jake's smile faltered, and he looked away for a moment.

"I've missed you too, Alex. I'm sorry I had to leave you like that."

Alex shook his head. "It wasn't your fault. You didn't choose to die."

Jake nodded. "I know. But I still feel like I left you with so much unfinished business.

We had plans, man. We were going to change the world together."

Alex smiled, feeling a pang of nostalgia. "We still can, Jake.

I've been working on some projects, trying to make a difference."

Jake's eyes lit up. "Tell me about them."

Alex launched into a passionate explanation of his ideas, and Jake listened intently, asking questions and making suggestions.

It was like no time had passed at all, and they were once again the inseparable duo they had always been.

As they talked, Alex realized that Jake's return wasn't just a chance to relive old times – it was also an opportunity to find closure and move forward.

As they finished their conversation, Jake nodded towards the door.

"You know, I've been stuck in that place for a while. I could use some fresh air."

Alex grinned. "Me too."

They walked outside, blinking in the bright sunlight.

The air was crisp and clean, filled with the scent of blooming flowers and fresh-cut grass.

Jake took a deep breath, closing his eyes. "Ah, that's good."

Alex smiled, watching his friend. It was surreal to see Jake standing next to him, alive and well.

But he wasn't going to question it.

He was just going to enjoy the moment.

As they walked across the lawn, Alex noticed a figure watching them from the distance.

It was Agent Thompson, a curious expression on her face.

Agent Thompson stepped out of the building, looking around expectantly. But there was no one in sight. She checked her watch, wondering if she was early.

Just then, Emily emerged from the doorway, looking thoughtful. "Agent Thompson," she said, nodding.

"Emily," Agent Thompson replied. "How did it go?"

Emily hesitated. "It was...enlightening. I think I understand myself better now."

Agent Thompson nodded. "Good.

As they spoke, Alex and Jake appeared at the doorway. Agent Thompson's eyes narrowed as she took in Jake's appearance.

"Alex, who's this?" she asked, her tone neutral.

Alex smiled. "This is Jake, my friend. We've known each other for years."

Agent Thompson's eyes lingered on Jake's face, her expression unreadable.

"I see," she said finally. "Well, let's talk about this later. Where's Michael?"

Alex frowned. "I haven't seen him yet. I thought he was doing his challenge."

Agent Thompson's expression turned serious. "I'll go check on him. This isn't like him to be late."

As Agent Thompson turned to leave, Jake spoke up. "Wait, what's going on? What challenges are you talking about?"

Agent Thompson turned back, her eyes locked on Jake's. "Later, Jake. Let's focus on Michael for now."

(Word count 507.)..