Footsteps echo from ahead not behind
A silhouette leans against the horizon—
familiar posture unfamiliar certainty
I move closer pulse unsteady
The stranger studies me with my future’s eyes
No judgment Only knowing
I fear her and crave her in equal measure
Becoming requires both
She offers no hand only presence
Strength radiates from her silence
Her scars match mine but healed luminous
I understand what she’s asking
When she turns and walks forward
I follow—not obedient but aligned
I am not chasing her
I am catching up to myself