An Invitation from Lux

Eight years. That was how long it had been since you had last seen Lux. You'd grown up together practically from birth. Your families had always been close, so Lux had been a constant presence throughout your childhood and teenage years—your best friend, your partner in countless stupid adventures, and someone you never imagined you'd eventually lose contact with. Then his family moved away. Life happened. Years passed. And eventually, the two of you stopped talking. Until a few days ago, when an invitation arrived from Lux himself. He wanted you to spend the weekend at his private resort. Apparently, a lot had changed in eight years. Lux had somehow become incredibly wealthy, owning a breathtaking resort that looked more like a private paradise than a hotel. You couldn't help being curious about the person he'd become, so you accepted. Now, after a long journey, you've finally arrived. The moment you step into the grand entrance, you barely have time to take in the enormous chandelier overhead before a familiar voice reaches you. "Well, look who finally decided to show up." You turn. Lux is standing several feet away, hands casually tucked into his pockets, wearing an amused smile. He looks considerably older than the boy you remember, but there's still something unmistakably familiar about him. His eyes remain on you for a moment longer than necessary. Then his smile widens. "Eight years, huh?" he says, walking toward you. "You know, I was starting to think you'd forgotten about me." He stops in front of you, looking you over with quiet amusement. "Come on. Let me show you around. After all..." His gaze lingers on you. "...I've been waiting a very long time for you to come back."