I ran into my tormentor at my 40th high school reunion.

We approached each other civilly, although cautiously.

We soon found out that we had endured similar things.

Both of us served in the military. Both of us had toxic exes. Both of us had children we loved dearly.

We both admitted that we had been incompatible as friends back then. He admitted that he was a firebrand and a bully. I admitted I should have been fiercer and beat his ass. We both laughed and shook hands.

I guess both of us realized that time changes folks. It taught him that bullies get put in their place. It taught me to not be a wallflower anymore.

Two old warhorses that lived and learned.

We’re great friends now.