I was about to leave through the gates when I suddenly heard quick footsteps on the gravel behind me. Turning around, I saw Alexei approaching without slowing down. I opened my arms, and he ran into them, hugging me tightly with his arms around my neck as I lifted him off the ground. The moment was filled with emotion and a sense of connection between us.
"I wanted you to know," he said with his voice thick with emotion, "that you can be my brother if you like. As long as you let me be yours." This sincere and heartfelt offer revealed Alexei's desire for belonging and the bond he wished to build, highlighting a touching moment of friendship and acceptance in the story.